Overview
- Multiple outlets reported Friday that President Trump approved a plan to oust FDA Commissioner Marty Makary, though no formal dismissal has been issued.
- A senior official told CNN the decision could still change, with Trump telling reporters he "knows nothing" about the reports and offering no confirmation.
- The showdown intensified after the White House pressed for quicker authorization of flavored e‑cigarettes, and the FDA cleared fruit and menthol products Tuesday over concerns they could attract youth.
- Makary has drawn criticism over stalled or tough calls on therapies and vaccines and for the slow pace of a promised safety review of mifepristone, as anti‑abortion leaders pressed the White House for action Friday evening.
- If Makary exits, the White House has discussed naming Deputy Commissioner Kyle Diamantas as acting chief, and any permanent successor would need Senate confirmation as key FDA and HHS posts remain unfilled.