Trump Weighs Firing Food and Drug Administration Head

The White House has approved a plan to remove Marty Makary as head of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), according to multiple sources, though advisers say President Donald Trump has not yet made a final decision and the situation could change.

Trump denied on Friday night that he was already seeking a new FDA chief, but several administration officials are reportedly discussing possible replacements. Among those mentioned are former FDA commissioner Stephen Hahn and former acting commissioner Brett Giroir.

Makary has faced growing criticism from Trump allies, conservative media, pharmaceutical companies and abortion opponents. Critics have taken particular issue with his handling of the FDA's drug approval process, the controversy over the abortion pill and the regulation of flavored electronic cigarettes, which Trump had promised to protect during the campaign.

The FDA is also navigating a turbulent period more broadly. Thousands of employees have left the agency since last year, including several senior regulators. Experts have warned of falling morale and a shortage of experienced professionals in leadership positions.

(reuters, lud)