US President-elect Donald Trump is reportedly considering Dr. Martin Makary, a prominent surgeon at Johns Hopkins University, to lead the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), according to sources close to the discussions. Makary, a vocal critic of COVID-19 mandates and an advocate for natural immunity, has raised concerns about public health policies during the pandemic.
The FDA, with a budget exceeding $7 billion, is a powerful regulatory body responsible for approving new treatments, ensuring their safety, and overseeing drugs, vaccines, medical devices, and food safety. As FDA commissioner, Makary would play a pivotal role in shaping health policies, particularly as Trump has also nominated Robert F. Kennedy Jr. for the head of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).
Makary, known for co-developing the Surgery Checklist, which improved patient outcomes worldwide, has authored a book titled Blind Spots, criticizing the overuse of medical treatments and advocating for reforms in healthcare practices. He has also supported reducing the overuse of antibiotics and hormone replacement therapy. If confirmed by the Senate, Makary would succeed Dr. Robert Califf, who served as FDA commissioner during the Obama administration and worked to address food operations and combat misinformation.
