Some staff members at the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are considering leaving their positions due to the potential appointment of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as a health official in the incoming Trump administration. During the transition to the first Trump administration, many FDA employees had similar concerns but ultimately stayed on and were able to execute new priorities for the agency. However, the addition of Kennedy as a potential health official has caused increased anxiety among staff members. Kennedy has expressed intentions to shake up federal health agencies, including the FDA, which has raised concerns among current and former officials about the agency’s ability to continue advancing its mission. It is uncertain what role Kennedy may have in the administration, but Trump has indicated that he will allow him to “go wild on health.”
FDA Commissioner Robert Califf has expressed uncertainty about the agency’s future following the election results, and there is speculation among employees about potential changes under the new administration. Some employees are considering leaving due to concerns about new post-employment restrictions and future job prospects. Despite this, it is unclear if any serious plans have been made to leave. Trump has also suggested ending the revolving door between government officials and lobbyists, which has added to staff concerns about their future job prospects if they choose to stay. Overall, there is a sense of uncertainty and anxiety among FDA employees about what changes may come under the new administration.
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