Particle.news

Download on the App Store

Senate Confirms Dr. Marty Makary as FDA Commissioner

Makary takes charge of the FDA following a 56-44 Senate vote, pledging to address workforce reductions, public health reforms, and contentious policy issues.

Dr. Marty Makary speaks during a screening of the HBO documentary film 'Bleed Out' on December 12, 2018 in New York City.
Martin Makary prepares to testify before the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions hearings on his nomination to be Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) Commissioner, on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC, on March 6, 2025. (Photo by SAUL LOEB / AFP) (Photo by SAUL LOEB/AFP via Getty Images)
Martin Makary, nominee to be commissioner of the Food and Drug Administration, appears before the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee for his confirmation hearing in the Dirksen Senate Office Building on March 6.
Image

Overview

  • Dr. Marty Makary, a Johns Hopkins surgeon and public health commentator, was confirmed as FDA commissioner in a 56-44 Senate vote, with three Democrats joining Republicans in support.
  • Makary assumes leadership of the FDA during significant workforce reductions imposed by Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency, which he has committed to reviewing.
  • He has pledged to evaluate the safety and efficacy of the abortion pill mifepristone and to address public health challenges, including childhood obesity and dietary reforms.
  • Makary has expressed support for vaccines but has been critical of certain COVID-19 policies, including school closures and booster recommendations for children.
  • His confirmation reflects the Trump administration's broader 'Make America Healthy Again' agenda, emphasizing reforms in federal health agencies and public health policy.