The Trump administration is accelerating efforts to identify a new commissioner for the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) following the resignation of Marty Makary on Tuesday.
The administration seeks a leader capable of rebuilding trust with FDA staff, prioritizing the agency’s food policy, and continuing to implement drug-approval reforms.
Timeline and Challenges Ahead
According to an official with knowledge of the process—who spoke on condition of anonymity—leaders aim to complete the search within the next several weeks. Despite speculation among lobbyists about potential candidates, no shortlist has been finalized.
The process faces hurdles, including the Senate’s limited session days and pending confirmations of other nominees. The administration must also confirm Erica Schwartz as the next CDC director and Nicole Saphire as the surgeon general.
It remains possible that Kyle Diamantas, former head of the FDA’s food center, could still serve as acting commissioner by the November midterms.
Key Priorities for the Next FDA Commissioner
- Rebuilding trust with FDA staff amid recent leadership changes.
- Strengthening food policy efforts within the agency.
- Advancing drug-approval reforms to streamline regulatory processes.
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