Trump's FDA Nominee Says MMR Shot is 'Safe and Effective' at Senate Hearing
Dr Heidi Overton faces confirmation hearing weeks after standing behind Trump as he suggested shot could be 'quite lethal'
TL;DR
- Dr. Heidi Overton, nominated to lead the FDA, affirmed the MMR vaccine is "safe and effective" during her Senate confirmation hearing.
- Her statement contrasts with President Trump's earlier remarks suggesting the MMR vaccine could be "quite lethal."
- Overton committed to providing her "best advice" and following statutory requirements if the president asked her to deviate from vaccine safety assurances.
- She aims to make the FDA "the agency of the possible" by speeding up drug development and protecting US leadership in biotechnology.
- Overton defended the FDA's authorization of flavored vapes, citing adult usage, while stating an administration commitment to protecting children.
- She previously criticized the mailing of abortion pills, deeming abortion "corrosive to children, women, and society broadly."
- If confirmed, Overton, 37, would be the youngest FDA commissioner.
- The US is experiencing its highest number of measles cases since 1991.