Overview
- Multiple outlets reported Friday that the White House approved a plan to oust FDA Commissioner Marty Makary, while cautioning the decision is not final and no formal dismissal has occurred.
- Trump told reporters Friday night he knew nothing about the reported plan, and senior aides were set to meet anti-abortion activists who have pressed the administration to curb access to the abortion pill mifepristone.
- The push to remove Makary follows disputes over drug approvals and vaccine policies, as well as a clash over flavored e‑cigarettes that preceded the FDA’s authorization of several fruit flavors on Tuesday.
- Succession remains unsettled, with reporting that FDA Deputy Commissioner Kyle Diamantas is under consideration to serve in an acting role, and sources noting the president could still change course.
- The FDA has weathered heavy turnover under Makary and Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., leaving key drug and vaccine posts vacant, which could delay reviews that patients and drugmakers rely on; the Wall Street Journal’s editorial board has urged his ouster, reflecting mounting pressure from conservative and industry voices.