FDA Vaccine Regulator Vinay Prasad Returns After White House Ouster

Dr. Vinay Prasad, a prominent and sometimes controversial critic of the FDA and its drug approval processes, has been reinstated as head of the FDA’s Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research less than two weeks after resigning amid pressure from the White House and right-wing activist Laura Loomer. Prasad's ouster followed a campaign highlighting his past criticisms of President Trump and his support for Democratic politicians, which Loomer and other conservative figures publicized. Despite these pressures and negative media attention, the White House ultimately approved his return after reviewing his previous remarks. It remains unclear whether Prasad will also resume his duties as the FDA’s chief medical and scientific officer. Health and Human Services officials emphasized that they would not allow media distractions to interfere with the FDA’s work under the Trump administration. Prasad’s reinstatement is unusual and highlights the influence of political activists on federal personnel decisions.