Moderna's Stock Slumps 0.58% as Trading Volume Dives to 448th Amid Fears of Anti-Science Agenda Under New HHS Leadership

On September 3, 2025, Moderna (MRNA) closed with a 0.58% decline, its trading volume fell to $0.22 billion—a 34.35% drop from the previous day—ranking 448th in market activity. The stock’s performance coincided with heightened concerns over U.S. public health policy shifts following the ousting of CDC Director Susan Monarez by Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Kennedy’s leadership has raised fears of an anti-science agenda, including potential restrictions on mRNA-based vaccines like Moderna’s, and reevaluations of pediatric immunization programs. Public health experts warn such moves could undermine trust in scientific data and disrupt vaccine distribution networks.

Kennedy’s agenda includes replacing the CDC’s independent vaccine advisory committee with appointees skeptical of mRNA vaccines, which Moderna co-developed. This shift could lead to revised recommendations for the 2023-24 vaccine, limiting access for healthy children and pregnant women. Critics argue the changes lack evidence, as recent studies confirm the vaccines’ efficacy in preventing severe illness. The FDA’s recent approval of updated boosters for high-risk groups further narrows the vaccine’s reach. HHS employees have openly criticized Kennedy, with over 6,800 signing a letter denouncing his “anti-science” rhetoric and its risks to public health.

The CDC’s reduced role in disease surveillance and outbreak response under Kennedy has also drawn scrutiny. Staff cuts and program scaling back—such as tracking fewer foodborne pathogens—have weakened the agency’s crisis management capabilities. States may struggle to compensate, as highlighted by recent measles outbreaks. Meanwhile, Kennedy’s delayed response to a fatal shooting at CDC headquarters has fueled internal discontent, with staff considering resignations. Congressional Republicans, including Senate HELP Committee Chair Bill Cassidy, have called for oversight, though no immediate legislative action is expected. The CDC’s next vaccine advisory meeting is scheduled for September 18, with outcomes likely to shape Moderna’s market outlook.