Potential For Califf’s Second US FDA Commissioner Term Surprises, Excites Stakeholders

Many supporters believe Robert Califf checks all the boxes, but if nominated he would also face many familiar confirmation challenges.

Food and Drug Administration Commissioner nominee Doctor Robert Califf testifies at his nomination hearing at the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee on Capitol Hill in Washington, November 17, 2015. REUTERS/Gary Cameron
If nominated and confirmed, former FDA commissioner Robert Califf would become only the second person to serve two separate terms in the office. • Source: Reuters/Gary Cameron

Stakeholders seem excited that Robert Califf could be tapped again to head the US Food and Drug Administration, but reaching the commissioner’s office a second time may be tougher, with many of the same issues raised during his first confirmation still lingering.

Califf is a top target for the nomination, the Washington Post first reported. The selection process is not complete;...

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