The Commissioner of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Marty McCulley, resigned on Tuesday after reports emerged that President Donald Trump was contemplating his dismissal.
This resignation came to light following an NBC News report on Friday, where an unnamed source indicated that President Trump was considering terminating McCulley’s position.
The news surfaced amid ongoing criticisms of McCulley for not having released a safety review of the abortion medication mifepristone, a commitment he made to Republican senators during his confirmation process last year, as stated in the report.
Moreover, McCulley faced challenges in managing the agency’s bureaucracy and gaining the trust of his staff in the wake of significant layoffs, according to the Associated Press.
A surgeon and health researcher, McCulley has gained recognition, particularly among Republicans, for openly criticizing COVID-19 health strategies throughout the pandemic. His tenure, however, was marked by difficulties in agency management and losses in staff trust, exacerbated by leadership instability and controversies, particularly when it appeared that the agency’s scientific decisions were influenced by political pressures.
Before heading to China on Tuesday, President Trump was asked by reporters whether he had taken action to fire McCulley or suggested he resign. Trump was somewhat evasive, referring to McCulley as his “friend” and “a great person.”
When probed further, Trump reiterated, “I don’t want to say it,” adding that McCulley is a dear friend who is stepping down, with his deputy taking over on an interim basis. “Everyone wants the job,” he mentioned.
“This is a really important role,” Trump added. “Marty is a fantastic individual and will continue to enjoy a good life.”
He went on to describe McCulley as going through “some challenges,” while acknowledging him as a “great doctor.”
In a Truth Social post, Trump expressed gratitude towards McCulley for his contributions as FDA chief, stating that significant achievements had occurred under his guidance.
“I want to thank Dr. Marty McCulley for the great work he has done at the FDA,” Trump noted. “Much has been accomplished during his leadership. He’s a dedicated worker, well-respected, and will surely thrive in his future medical career. The talented Kyle Diamantas will be taking over as acting director.”
In another post, Trump shared a text message from McCulley in which he requested to have his resignation accepted, emphasizing his pride in announcing 50 major reforms at the FDA during his time in office.
McCulley highlighted his significant accomplishments, including reducing drug review periods and creating new pathways for various treatments during his tenure, and notably criticized the previous administration’s lack of initiatives.
HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. commended McCulley for challenging existing norms and prioritizing the American people.
“Marty, you tackled deep-seated interests, challenged the status quo, and always kept in mind the people we serve,” Kennedy remarked. “You’ve advocated for crucial reforms and aided in our mission to enhance American health. I appreciate your courage and friendship.”
He also expressed gratitude regarding Kyle Diamantas stepping up as Acting Secretary.
