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Leadership Changes at HHS as Key Aides Depart Amid Restructuring

KVIA•Friday, February 13, 2026 at 4:18 PM•CNN Newsource

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Two senior officials at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Deputy Secretary Jim O’Neill and General Counsel Mike Stuart, are set to leave their positions as part of a significant leadership restructuring ahead of the midterm elections. O’Neill, who has been a controversial figure due to his role in promoting anti-vaccine messaging and his lack of formal public health experience, will be replaced as the agency aims to enhance its policy focus and public communication. The White House is shifting its strategy to prioritize health care issues, including drug price reductions and healthier eating initiatives, in preparation for the upcoming elections. This leadership change is part of a broader effort to realign HHS's objectives and improve its messaging effectiveness.

Key Details: • Jim O’Neill and Mike Stuart are leaving HHS as part of a leadership shakeup. • O’Neill was previously the acting director of the CDC and has faced criticism for his public communication skills. • The White House plans to focus on health care as a key issue for the midterm elections. • Chris Klomp has been appointed as the new chief counselor at HHS.

healthcare leadership midterms cdc hhs

People & Organizations

Centers for Disease Control and PreventionRobert F. Kennedy Jr.Jim O’NeillU.S. Department of Health and Human ServicesChris KlompMike StuartThiel Foundation

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