Story perspectives

Trump Calls Makary Friend, Confirms FDA Resignation

5/14/2026

Center

Trump Confirms Resignation

President Donald Trump praised Marty Makary as a friend while confirming his resignation amid flavored-vape and abortion-pill disputes.
Marty Makary resigned as FDA commissioner on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, and Kyle Diamantas became acting commissioner.
His 13-month tenure saw mass layoffs, senior turnover, and anti-abortion criticism over mifepristone.
Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. initiated Makary’s removal, with White House approval following.

Left

Trump Removes

The Health and Human Services department lacks a Senate-confirmed surgeon general, an acting CDC director, and an acting FDA commissioner.
Marty Makary resigned as FDA commissioner on May 12, 2026, and Deputy Commissioner Kyle Diamantas became acting commissioner.
President Donald Trump approved removal after Makary opposed fruit-flavored e-cigarette approval, backed by anti-abortion advocates.
Experts warn reviews of foods, dyes and vaccines could erode confidence during a hantavirus outbreak.

History

Historical Context

President Obama signed the Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act on June 22 2009, giving the FDA authority over tobacco and establishing the Center for Tobacco Products on August 19 2009. The agency expanded oversight with the 2016 deeming rule and 2025 Supreme Court decisions on flavored vaping. On May 12 2026 President Trump accepted Marty Makary’s resignation, appointing Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Kyle Diamantas as FDA heads, sparking concerns.

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Trump Confirms Resignation

President Donald Trump praised Marty Makary as a friend while confirming his resignation amid flavored-vape and abortion-pill disputes.
Marty Makary resigned as FDA commissioner on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, and Kyle Diamantas became acting commissioner.
His 13-month tenure saw mass layoffs, senior turnover, and anti-abortion criticism over mifepristone.
Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. initiated Makary’s removal, with White House approval following.

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