Califf Clears First Senate Hurdle, But FDA Decision On Abortion Pill May Complicate Final Confirmation

Republican opposition to Califf over agency’s recent move to relax its Mifeprex restrictions is ominous since, in order be confirmed as commissioner, he’ll need enough GOP votes to make up for Democratic opposition over his opioid track record and connections to pharma industry.

Robert Califf testisified 14 Dec 2022 at the Senate HELP committee — • Source: Alamy

The Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee voted on 13 January to advance Robert Califf’s nomination to lead the US Food and Drug Administration. The close vote, 13-8, that sharply contrasts with the unanimous committee recommendation when heCaliff was confirmed to the agency FDA under President Obama and is indicative of a much tougher fight he likely faces on the Senate floor.

A key stumbling block appears to be FDA’s recent action to make it easier for people to access the abortion...