Donald Trump is considering removing Dr. Marty Makary from his position as head of the Food and Drug Administration, according to a source familiar with the discussions.
Makary, a surgeon and public health official, took the helm of the FDA after Trump's return to office. His tenure at the agency has drawn scrutiny as the administration reshapes federal health policy and regulatory approaches.
The potential move reflects broader personnel shifts within Trump's cabinet as he consolidates control over key executive agencies. The FDA oversees pharmaceutical approvals, food safety, and medical devices, making the position one of the most powerful regulatory roles in government.
Details about specific grievances or the timeline for any potential firing remain unclear. Trump has a history of rapidly cycling through cabinet members and senior officials, often through public announcements or social media posts.
Makary's background includes surgical practice and advocacy around healthcare policy. Before his FDA appointment, he had appeared frequently in media discussions about pandemic response and drug pricing.
Any removal of the FDA chief would require Trump to nominate and see confirmed a successor, a process that could face scrutiny in the Senate. The pharmaceutical and medical device industries closely monitor FDA leadership changes given the agency's direct impact on their operations.
The White House did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the matter.
Author Sarah Mitchell: "Whether this materializes or remains internal posturing, a shake-up at the FDA signals Trump's readiness to remake health regulation entirely on his terms."
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