Trump fires FDA chief Makary after months of regulatory and political turmoil

President Donald Trump has approved plans to remove Dr. Marty Makary from his role as Food and Drug Administration (FDA) commissioner. The decision follows months of controversy over Makary’s handling of drug approvals, food regulations, and political pressure from both industry groups and advocacy organisations. Reports of the dismissal first emerged in The Wall Street Journal. Makary was initially appointed to streamline drug approvals, improve food safety standards, and boost morale within the FDA. During his tenure, he played a key role in accelerating the approval of a pancreatic cancer treatment and the pill version of GLP-1 weight loss medications. He also pushed for policies aimed at attracting more clinical trials to the US while balancing business interests with regulatory oversight.

His leadership, however, faced criticism from multiple sides. The FDA under Makary approved natural food dyes and removed warnings on hormone replacement therapies for women—decisions he defended by citing input from career scientists. Meanwhile, biotech firms and investors raised concerns after the agency rejected treatments for rare diseases, arguing the medications lacked sufficient evidence of effectiveness. Political pressure also mounted against Makary. The White House reportedly urged him to greenlight flavoured e-cigarettes, including blueberry and mango varieties. Additionally, anti-abortion groups such as Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America called for his removal over his management of the abortion pill mifepristone. Makary maintained that the FDA’s rulings were based on scientific assessments rather than external influence. Despite his efforts to modernise the agency, the controversies ultimately led to Trump’s decision to dismiss him.

The move to fire Makary marks a shift in the FDA’s direction under Trump’s administration. His departure follows clashes over drug approvals, food regulations, and political interference. The agency will now face questions about how its policies may change under new leadership.