Trump Considers Firing FDA Commissioner Marty Makary

Though a final decision has not been made, the source said the administration has reviewed Makary's leadership at the agency. NBC News reported the information on Saturday. The FDA commissioner oversees regulation of food safety, pharmaceuticals, medical devices and other public health responsibilities.

Any change in leadership would require Senate confirmation of a successor under federal law. His tenure has included decisions on drug approvals and regulatory policy that have drawn internal review. The potential dismissal comes as the agency continues work on multiple fronts, including oversight of ongoing clinical trials and responses to public health inquiries.

No timeline for a decision was provided by the source.

Background on the FDA Role The position of FDA commissioner is a presidential appointment that directs one of the largest regulatory agencies in the federal government. Commissioners serve at the pleasure of the president but typically remain in place unless removed for policy or performance reasons.

Previous changes in FDA leadership have occurred during shifts in administration priorities on issues such as vaccine approvals, tobacco regulation and food labeling standards. Any removal of the current commissioner would follow established federal personnel procedures.