Trump dismisses a member from the railroad board and the leader of the country's biggest health organization.

In a series of unexpected moves, US President Donald Trump has dismissed two high-profile officials over disagreements on corporate mergers.

On Wednesday afternoon, Robert Primus, a member of the board of the railroad regulatory agency, was fired by President Trump. The reason for the dismissal was reportedly Primus' opposition to the merger between Canadian Pacific and Kansas City Southern, a deal that would, if approved, allow a single company to control coast-to-coast rail transportation in the U.S. for the first time in history.

Robert Primus, a Democrat, was appointed by Trump to the Surface Transportation Board in 2020. He was the only board member to oppose the merger, stating that it was not in the public interest. This was not the first time Primus had voiced such concerns, as he had previously opposed a merger on similar grounds.

The same day, Susan Monarez, the director of the nation's top public health agency, the CDC, was also fired. Monarez, who was appointed in late May, was dismissed on Thursday evening. According to reports, she was let go because she did not align with President Trump's agenda. Monarez refused to resign and was subsequently fired.

Monarez's lawyers have claimed that she was targeted for defending science, a crucial aspect of her role at the CDC. Regulatory authorities have also expressed skepticism about the proposed megamerger between Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern, fearing price increases, service disruptions, and reduced investment in safety.

Several high-ranking officials at the CDC have resigned in recent months, adding to the uncertainty and turmoil within the agency. The $71.5 billion merger between Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern, announced in July, is currently under review by the Surface Transportation Board.

These moves come as President Trump continues to face criticism for his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and his approach to science and public health. The dismissals of Primus and Monarez are likely to fuel further debate and speculation about the administration's priorities and commitment to the public interest.

Trump dismisses a member from the railroad board and the leader of the country's biggest health organization.