Trump plans to fire FDA Commissioner Marty Makary, the Wall Street Journal reported, citing sources familiar with his plans. The move would end a 14-month tenure marked by layoffs, leadership exits, and escalating conflict with the White House.
Makary, a former Johns Hopkins surgeon confirmed in March 2025, came to the agency known for his criticism of COVID-19 vaccine mandates and skepticism of masks for children. He took the helm as the FDA was already being hollowed out by workforce reductions. The agency has seen unprecedented turnover on his watch: Richard Pazdur resigned as CDER director after just one month, warning of political influence that has “seeped into regulatory decision-making,” and Vinay Prasad left his CBER post for the second time in eight months amid controversies over cell and gene therapies for rare diseases.
The immediate trigger reportedly involves vaping. Makary was reluctant to endorse fruit-flavored e-cigarettes, drawing Trump’s ire. The FDA relented Tuesday, authorizing 45 types.
The agency’s troubles extend beyond leadership exits. In November 2025, hundreds of industry leaders signed a letter to Makary questioning the FDA’s ability to function and demanding more predictability. This week, the agency faced criticism for blocking publication of COVID and shingles vaccine studies that found side effects were “very rare,” according to the New York Times.
WSJ notes the plan isn’t finalized and Trump could change his mind. HHS didn’t respond to a request for comment.
Sarah Chen