Trump's Fda Nominee Faces Senate Questions After Agency Layoffs And Resignations

President Donald Trump's pick to lead the Food and Drug Administration is set to answer Senate questions Thursday about his plans for the agency, which may soon be at the center of an administration plan to scrutinize vaccines , antidepressants and ultraprocessed foods.

Dr. Marty Makary - a surgeon, author and researcher - is known for his contrarian views and outspoken criticism of the medical establishment. Like health secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr ., Makary traces many of the health issues afflicting Americans to food additives , overprescribing of drugs and the influence of drugmakers, insurers and food companies.

To become commissioner, he'll need a majority vote from members of the Senate's health committee, who will question him Thursday morning. A confirmation vote by the full Senate is expected later this month.

The FDA has long been a target for Kennedy , who last year vowed to "clear out" entire departments at the agency, including those overseeing nutrition. Kennedy recently called for a "Make America Healthy Again" commission to review the safety of vaccines, antidepressants, stimulants and weight-loss drugs - all products regulated by the FDA - particularly in children.

The approach has been lauded by most Republicans. But Senate Democrats are expected to push Makary on his willingness to break with Kennedy on key issues, including the safety and benefits of childhood vaccinations.