Vinay Prasad Rejoins FDA Days After Exit
Dr. Vinay Prasad has returned to his leadership role at the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as the Director of the Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research (CBER), overseeing vaccine, gene therapy, and blood product regulation. This return occurred less than two weeks after he had resigned from the agency.
His initial departure on July 30 was reportedly due to pressure from the White House and right-wing activist Laura Loomer, who criticized his past remarks, including those about President Donald Trump, and labeled him a “progressive leftist saboteur”. Loomer also highlighted controversy around the FDA’s handling of Sarepta Therapeutics’ Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) treatment, Elevidys, during Prasad’s short tenure.
Prasad’s return is seen as a personnel victory for HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and FDA Commissioner Marty Makary, who both opposed his dismissal and encouraged him to reconsider. After reviewing the situation, the White House allowed his reinstatement. Despite his return, Loomer has renewed her attacks, promising further “exposes” of officials. The situation has also reportedly contributed to low staff morale at the FDA.
Why Vinay Prasad Left The FDA?
Who is Vinay Prasad?
Dr. Vinay Prasad is a prominent American hematologist-oncologist and a Professor of Epidemiology and Biostatistics at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF). He is known for his extensive academic work, over 500 published articles, and books like “Ending Medical Reversal”.
Prasad is a vocal and often controversial critic of what he views as low-value medical care, flawed evidence in drug development, and certain health policies, including aspects of the US COVID-19 pandemic response. He engages in public discourse through his podcasts (“Plenary Session,” “The VPZD Show”), Substack, and YouTube channel, frequently challenging conventional medical wisdom and advocating for evidence-based practice.
source: www.vinayakkprasad.com
Who is Laura Loomer?
Laura Loomer is an internet personality and political activist described as a far-right. She gained significant attention for her role in pressuring for the removal of Dr. Vinay Prasad from his FDA roles, publicly labeling him a “progressive leftist saboteur” and highlighting his past remarks. A staunch supporter of Donald Trump, she holds strong political opinions and advocates for the dismissal of officials she deems disloyal. Loomer has vowed to escalate her efforts, promising “exposes of officials within HHS and FDA” and preparing “multiple oppo books” for upcoming Senate Confirmation hearings.
source: www.neyorker.com
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