Full Breakdown
Trump Approves Plan to Fire FDA Commissioner Marty Makary
5/12/2026, 11:25:29 PM
Core Event
President Donald Trump has approved a plan to remove FDA Commissioner Marty Makary. The decision follows disputes over flavored e-cigarette approvals, the abortion medication mifepristone, and several drug-review rejections. Makary, confirmed in March 2025, has not yet been formally notified, and his Senate testimony on May 13 remains scheduled.
Timeline
- Mar 2025 – Makary confirmed as FDA commissioner.
- May 6 2025 – FDA approves flavored e-cigarettes after presidential pressure.
- May 8 2026 – Senior HHS officials recommend proceeding with dismissal.
- May 13 2026 – Makary’s Senate testimony.
Key Figures & Groups
Marty Makary (FDA commissioner), Donald Trump (President), Kush Desai (White House spokesperson), Phoebe Keller (Senate Appropriations spokesperson), Scott Gottlieb (former FDA commissioner), Peter Lurie (Center for Science in the Public Interest), Marjorie Dannenfelser (Pro-Life America president), Bill Cassidy (Republican senator), Kyle Diamantas (FDA deputy commissioner for food, potential acting head).
Data & Statistics
The FDA rejects about 20 percent of drug applications; staff turnover rose after 2024 efficiency cuts, though exact numbers are undisclosed. The National Priority Voucher program granted at least two fast-track approvals for weight-loss drugs in 2025.
Why It Matters
Analysts warn political pressure could weaken scientific independence and affect the agency’s ability to evaluate safety and efficacy of medicines and foods.
Official Statements & Responses
The White House says the administration remains “laser-focused on delivering on the President’s agenda.” Phoebe Keller confirmed Makary’s testimony will proceed. Trump reiterated he “knows nothing” about the firing plan. HHS officials have not commented.
Criticism & Opposition
Pro-life groups led by Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America have called for Makary’s removal over mifepristone policy. Republican senator Bill Cassidy has criticized his handling of abortion-pill regulation and rare-disease drug reviews. Former FDA leaders Scott Gottlieb and Peter Lurie warn agency turmoil threatens credibility.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources differ on whether Makary has received formal notice of dismissal. Some describe the plan as approved but not final; others say the White House could reverse it. The successor’s identity remains unconfirmed, with Kyle Diamantas cited as a leading possibility.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I've been reading about it, but I know nothing about it.” — President Donald Trump
- “Every member of the Trump administration remains laser-focused on delivering on the President’s agenda,” — Kush Desai, White House spokesperson
- “Marty’s a friend, I think he’s done some admirable things in that role, I think the continued upheaval at that agency is having a detrimental effect,” — Scott Gottlieb, former FDA commissioner
- “Public trust is built up not over months, but over decades. On the other hand, you can destroy it in mere months,” — Peter Lurie, Center for Science in the Public Interest
What's Next
Kyle Diamantas is expected to serve as acting FDA head; other candidates such as Stephen Hahn have been mentioned. The FY 2027 FDA budget will be debated in Congress.
