President Trump is reportedly set to fire Food and Drug Administration Commissioner Marty Makary, amid ongoing controversy over vape regulations and other health issues.
The plan comes after a tumultuous year at the FDA, with vaccine approvals, gene therapy decisions and the contentious debate around flavored vapes dominating headlines. Makary faced criticism from the president for not moving quickly enough on approving certain flavors of e-cigarettes, despite concerns about youth addiction.
Reports suggest that Makary’s decision to avoid approving menthol, mango and blueberry vape flavors from Glas out of concern they might entice young people to start vaping led to increased pressure. Following intense lobbying, the FDA eventually authorized the flavored vapes this week.
The move could add another high-profile vacancy in a department already rife with vacancies under Trump’s administration. Critics have long complained about the FDA's performance and leadership, particularly regarding vaccine approvals and health regulations like vape oversight.
