FDA nominee turns vaccine question on Dem, recalling controversial Biden decision

President Donald Trump’s nominee to lead the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Dr. Marty Makary, faced a tough line of questioning during his confirmation hearing on Thursday. Senator Patty Murray, a top Democrat, asked Makary if he would commit to rescheduling an FDA Vaccine Advisory Committee meeting that had been postponed. In response, Makary turned the question around and suggested that she ask former President Joe Biden why he skipped a key step in the COVID-19 booster process.

Makary, a professor at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine and former Fox News medical contributor, highlighted the Biden administration’s decision to forgo convening the advisory committee when authorizing vaccines. He emphasized that he was not involved in the decision-making process but pointed out the importance of expert input in such critical decisions.

The FDA commissioner nominee’s remarks shed light on the Biden administration’s approach to approving a COVID-19 booster for individuals over the age of 18 in 2021. The decision was made without convening the Vaccines and Related Biological Products Advisory Committee, raising concerns about transparency and thorough review.

Senator Murray expressed her lack of confidence in the public health agencies’ decision-making process, citing the cancellation of routine meetings that provide recommendations for flu vaccine strains. She emphasized the importance of expert input in public health decision-making and urged the resumption of advisory committee meetings.

During the confirmation hearing, Senator Bill Cassidy, the HELP committee chairman, questioned Makary about ensuring the objectivity and transparency of advisory committees. Makary committed to reviewing the committees’ functions and stressed the need for expert input in critical decisions, such as COVID-19 booster guidance.

Overall, Makary’s confirmation hearing highlighted the importance of expert input and transparency in public health decision-making. The exchange between Makary and Senators Murray and Cassidy underscored the need for rigorous review processes and the inclusion of external experts in FDA decisions. As Makary’s nomination moves forward, it will be crucial to uphold these principles to ensure the safety and efficacy of vaccines and other medical products.