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FDA's New Chief Expected to Depart Amid Controversy

12/3/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Richard Pazdur, the newly appointed head of the U.S. FDA's drug evaluation department, is expected to leave within a month.
He replaced George Tidmarsh, who resigned amid concerns about his conduct.
Pazdur had warned about a new fast-approval path that could jeopardize public health.
Former FDA Commissioner Robert Califf warned that Pazdur's exit would be a major loss for the agency and public health.

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Story summary

Richard Pazdur, the newly appointed head of the U.S. FDA's drug evaluation department, is expected to leave within a month.
He replaced George Tidmarsh, who resigned amid concerns about his conduct.
Pazdur had warned about a new fast-approval path that could jeopardize public health.
Former FDA Commissioner Robert Califf warned that Pazdur's exit would be a major loss for the agency and public health.