Fri Jul 18 02:30:00 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the text and a rewritten version as a news article:
**Summary:**
US Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has abruptly dismissed his Chief of Staff, Heather Flick Melanson, and Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy, Hannah Anderson, after internal disagreements. Initial plans to fire Anderson, led by Flick Melanson, were reportedly mishandled, angering Kennedy and leading to his decision to terminate Flick Melanson as well. Melanson denies being fired, claiming she resigned. Matt Buckham, the HHS White House liaison, will serve as acting chief of staff. The shakeup leaves key positions vacant at a critical time, as HHS faces scrutiny over its health policies and vaccine initiatives.
**News Article:**
**Kennedy Shakes Up HHS Leadership with Abrupt Firings**
**Washington, D.C. -** In a surprise move, US Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has terminated his Chief of Staff, Heather Flick Melanson, and Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy, Hannah Anderson, CNN has learned. The dismissals follow internal clashes within the department that reportedly culminated in the ousting of both individuals this week.
While reports indicate Flick Melanson initially pushed for Anderson’s removal, sources say the process was mishandled, raising concerns within the White House and ultimately leading to Secretary Kennedy’s decision to terminate Flick Melanson, citing a loss of confidence.
In a statement provided after the initial report, Flick Melanson denied being fired, stating she had resigned from her position. Anderson did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
“He brings valuable experience in personnel strategy and organizational management to this new role,” the spokesperson said. “Secretary Kennedy thanks the outgoing leadership for their service and looks forward to working closely with Mr. Buckham as the Department continues advancing its mission to Make America Healthy Again.”
The departure of Flick Melanson and Anderson leaves key senior positions vacant as HHS faces increasing scrutiny regarding its policies, particularly its approach to vaccine mandates, and other major health and food priorities.
Flick Melanson brought significant Washington experience to HHS, having previously served in various roles during the Trump administration. Anderson, a former Republican staffer with experience on Capitol Hill and at the America First Policy Institute, joined HHS to advise on health policy.
Secretary Kennedy has yet to announce permanent replacements for the departed aides. Matt Buckham, the HHS White House liaison, will serve as acting chief of staff while the search is conducted. The shakeup comes at a crucial time for the department.
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