President Donald Trump has approved a plan to remove Marty Makary, commissioner of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), according to multiple media reports. However, insiders caution that the decision is not yet final and could still change.
News of the planned dismissal first emerged from sources who spoke with The Wall Street Journal. The report was later corroborated by Bloomberg, The Washington Post, and Politico.
The Washington Post further noted that the Trump administration has not yet determined who would serve as acting FDA commissioner following Makary’s potential departure.
Background: Makary’s Turbulent Tenure at the FDA
Makary’s time at the FDA has been marked by significant turmoil and controversy. Key issues during his tenure include:
- Cuts to the DOGE (Division of Drug Oncology and Hematology) program
- Internal personnel disputes
- Controversies surrounding vaccine approvals
- Gene therapy regulatory decisions
- Oversight of abortion pill distribution
- Regulation of vaping products