Mississippi State Health Officer Dr. Dan Edney said Wednesday he is not seeking the director position at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Speaking to reporters following a state Board of Health meeting in Jackson, Edney emphasized his dedication to serving Mississippi.
“This is a job that I love. I’ve made it clear to everyone I’ve talked to, I’m not looking for another post,” Edney said. “I’m focused on serving the people of Mississippi as their health officer.”
According to The Washington Post, Edney was among about half a dozen individuals considered by the Trump administration for the CDC role, which has been vacant since August. The administration has delayed naming a permanent director, with Dr. Jay Bhattacharya serving as acting director since February.
The CDC has been without a permanent leader for months amid staff reductions, policy shifts, and a fatal shooting at the agency. Since January 2025, roughly 18% of the workforce has left or been fired, according to The New York Times.
Edney, who became Mississippi’s top health official in August 2022, was seen as a traditional candidate for the CDC director position. He has been a vocal advocate for evidence-based policies and vaccinations, especially after a 2023 court ruling allowed religious exemptions for childhood vaccines.
While Edney did not put his name forward, his record of public health improvements in Mississippi was noted by experts. Dr. Debra Houry, the CDC’s former chief medical officer, said Edney’s commitment to science and data aligns with the typical profile for the role. She added that, in normal times, he would be a likely candidate for CDC director.
Edney previously served as deputy state health officer and chief medical officer. He worked closely with Dr. Thomas Dobbs on COVID-19 response efforts. He also served as president of the Mississippi State Medical Association and practiced medicine in Vicksburg for over 30 years.
Under his leadership, Mississippi’s public health ranking improved to 48th out of 99 states, according to a report by United Health Foundation.
Jon Ross Myers is the executive editor and publisher of the Mississippi News Network, Mississippi's largest digital only media company. He can be reached at editor@tippahnews.com
