Ralph Abraham, a veterinarian, physician, and politician, has been named Principal Deputy Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) effective November 23, 2025.[1] He previously served as Louisiana's physician general in 2024–2025, where he ordered an end to mass vaccination clinics and the promotion of seasonal vaccines.[1][3] He took up his post at the CDC on January 5, 2026.[2] Abraham is known for his skeptical attitude towards vaccines, lockdowns and masks, which he called practically ineffective.[1] He claimed that the adverse effects of the COVID-19 vaccines were suppressed and suggested a possible link to abortions.[1] Ralph Abraham was born on September 16, 1954.[1]