FDA Commissioner Marty Makary is leaving his post after a challenging period in President Donald Trump’s administration. This resignation represents yet another significant change at a top U.S. health agency.
Makary, a prominent Johns Hopkins surgeon, is stepping down Tuesday amidst ongoing pressures concerning vaping policies, reviews of abortion drugs, and internal FDA disagreements.
Reports indicate that President Trump had already approved plans to appoint a successor before the news of Makary’s resignation became public.
Confirmed by the Senate in March 2025, Makary had been chosen to lead the FDA during Trump’s second term. He gained recognition during the COVID-19 pandemic for opposing vaccine mandates and lockdown measures.
His time leading the FDA was marked by controversies, including staffing challenges, criticism from pharmaceutical firms, and displeasure from anti-abortion groups regarding the review process for the abortion pill mifepristone.
Makary faced additional pressure from vaping advocates and some of Trump’s allies concerning delays with flavored e-cigarette approvals, contributing to mounting tensions with the White House recently.
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Despite facing criticisms, conservatives commended Makary for defying conventional public health guidelines and advocating for significant reforms within federal health agencies alongside Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.
No permanent successor has been announced yet, although FDA Deputy Commissioner for Food Kyle Diamantas is anticipated to take on an acting role.
Makary’s exit underscores ongoing leadership changes within Trump’s health agencies as the administration seeks to stabilize operations in preparation for the midterm elections in 2026.
