In a wide-ranging interview, Robert Califf, the departing commissioner of the Food and Drug Administration, defended the FDA’s record under his leadership, praised the progress that has been made in changing the way the agency regulates food, and worried about the impact of the coming Trump administration.
He also articulated a very specific doctrine about the role of an FDA commissioner, one that is limited in its power and leaves many controversial decisions to career government officials.
The clock is ticking down to what could be a volatile period for the FDA. Robert F. Kennedy Jr., President-elect Donald Trump’s choice to be secretary of health and human services, has used anti-vaccine rhetoric for decades and, before the 2024 election, warned FDA employees on social media to preserve “their records.” But Marty Makary, the presumptive next FDA commissioner, is seen as a more stable choice to run the agency. Chaos could loom ahead — or not.
“I’m a political appointee, and the election didn’t go as I hoped it would, and given the statements that have been made by various people who are in contention for key posts, I have a lot of reason to be concerned,” Califf told STAT.
This article is exclusive to STAT+ subscribers
Unlock this article — plus in-depth analysis, newsletters, premium events, and news alerts.
Already have an account? Log in