Biden in standoff with Democratic senators over who should lead FDA

After about 6 months into his presidency, President Joe Biden is in a standoff with senators within his own party about who should head the FDA. Right now, there is no sign of the spot being filled permantly anytime soon.

CNN reported:

“Dr. Janet Woodcock, a career official since 1986, has been serving as acting head since January but has come under fire from several Senate Democrats over the agency’s role in the opioid crisis and is no longer considered the front-runner, multiple sources tell CNN. However, it is unclear who else is in the running to serve as the agency’s head.”

Currently there is no sense of urgency to fill the position. It is believed this is because there are no other solid candidates.

A White House official stated:

“We have strong acting leadership in place that is playing an important role in our Covid-19 response and beyond, and look forward to sharing a nominee with the requisite expertise and leadership for this job.”

CNN