Manhattan Probes Pfizer's COVID Vaccine Timing Claims

Federal prosecutors in Manhattan are investigating claims made by British drugmaker GSK that Pfizer delayed announcing the success of its COVID-19 vaccine until after the 2020 election. This allegation is based on information shared by Philip Dormitzer, a former Pfizer executive who joined GSK, although he disputes the account, asserting that efforts were made to obtain FDA's Emergency Use Authorization quickly. The U.S. Attorney's Office has interviewed several individuals, including a GSK executive who documented a conversation with Dormitzer, in this potentially politically sensitive probe. President Trump has previously claimed Pfizer withheld positive trial data, but no evidence has supported these accusations. GSK has declined to comment, and Pfizer has not yet been interviewed by the prosecutors. Shares of Pfizer dropped approximately 1.5% following these reports, reflecting investor concerns over the implications of the investigation.