Critics Question Thompson’s Bioterrorism Response, Say He Is ‘Seriously Out of His Depth,’ USA Today Reports

Despite winning praise as an "innovative, aggressive manager" during his years as Wisconsin's governor, HHS Secretary Tommy Thompson has received "less favorable reviews" in his "evolving role" as the nation's "answer man on anthrax," USA Today reports. In a profile of Thompson, the Oct. 26 USA Today notes that the secretary's critics have complained about his "lack of science expertise" and his problems in communication -- charging Thompson with releasing information that is "premature, misleading or wrong" regarding America's "war on bioterrorism." According to Christopher Caldwell, a writer for the Weekly Standard, Thompson is "seriously out of his depth" at HHS and his resignation is "overdue." And Michael Crowley of the New Republic said although Thompson, who made "no secret" of his desire to be appointed secretary of transportation, is "a good and diligent man in a very tough position," one "wonders whether he belongs in it." However, some government officials of both parties have said the real problem with the federal anthrax response has been the "lack of overall preparedness," not Thompson's individual actions. In fact, Sen. Joseph Lieberman (D-Conn.), one of HHS' leading critics, recently praised Thompson for appointing a department bioterrorism coordinator last July -- "before the current threats became real."

Underestimated?
Thompson's champions suggest that the secretary "is always underestimated." A 1995 Governing magazine article noted that Thompson "worked [for] decades to overcome the common belief that (he) lacked the sophistication to govern" Wisconsin. But USA Today reports that Thompson turned his lack of polish to his advantage, adopting a "man of the people" persona. "He has a great capacity to relate to the ordinary person," Rev. Timothy O'Brien, director of Marquette University's Les Aspin Center, said, adding, "There's no politician I have ever watched who has grown more in his jobs." And Thompson acknowledges that he is adapting to his new role. "I wouldn't say I am more cautious since the onset of the anthrax scare," he said in an interview, adding, "I certainly know more. This is an evolving science" (Lawrence, USA Today, 10/26). For comprehensive public health information from the CDC on anthrax and other bioterrorism issues, please visit www.bt.cdc.gov.