FDA Vaccine Chief Resigns Following Disputes with RFK Jr., Raising Public Health Concerns

Peter Marks' resignation highlights tensions over vaccine misinformation, sparking uncertainty for biotech markets and federal health policy.

Peter Marks, the FDA's top vaccine regulator, resigned after being pressured to step down by HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., citing Kennedy's promotion of vaccine misinformation.
The resignation has led to significant declines in biotech and vaccine stock prices, with companies like Moderna and Novavax experiencing sharp drops.
Kennedy's restructuring of HHS includes plans to cut 10,000 jobs, raising concerns about the agency's capacity to manage public health challenges effectively.
Public health experts warn that Marks' departure signals a shift away from evidence-based vaccine standards, potentially undermining trust in immunization efforts.
Marty Makary, the new FDA Commissioner, approved the decision to force Marks out, intensifying fears about the politicization of federal health agencies.