The sudden resignation of Scott Gottlieb, the commissioner of the Food and Drug Administration, leaves a giant hole atop an agency that oversees a quarter of the U.S. economy. Which, of course, leads to an equally big question: Who will replace him?
This is actually a two-part question. First, the administration will likely decide on an acting commissioner, who can take control when Gottlieb departs in a month. Then comes the harder task of finding a nominee who can be confirmed by the Senate. It would not be unprecedented for an administration facing other battles to leave the acting commissioner in place for months — or longer. There might not be a new commissioner until after 2020.
How about Dr. Oz! A true renaissance man, versed in nothing scientific, probably a top contender in the president’s mind, (if he has one).
Wait, how about JARED! He is doing EVERYTHING in Trump’s government, and he’s so entirely qualified for absolutely nothing. Remember Alfred E. Neuman? Yeah, that’s the guy. What, me worry?
How about Rich Besser? CDC lifer including stint as head honcho; former ABC News chief medical correspondent; now the head of top health philanthropy Robert Woods Johnson Foundation.
Please not a TV doctor!
Thank you for posting this well-informed article. As I read through the suggested candidates for the top position at the Food and Drug Administration, I couldn’t help but wonder what each of these candidates brings to the table in terms of managing our FOOD supply. The US imports the lions share of its food, and it’s my understanding that the FDA inspects a very small percentage. Yes, drugs must be properly regulated, but let us not forget..we are what we eat!
I heard Amy just started in March.
Hargan drove Scott out. And Gulfo nominated himself. This pick will be a Pharma friendly insider.
Please explain the politics behind “Hargan drove Scott out.” Sounds very interesting.