Top FDA Vaccine Official Resigns Amid Controversial Leadership Shift

Fri Jul 18 2025 16:09:18 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)
Top FDA Vaccine Official Resigns Amid Controversial Leadership Shift

Resignation sparked by tensions over health misinformation and commitment to scientific integrity.


Peter Marks, a prominent figure in vaccine development, resigns from the FDA as a response to new leadership's approach to scientific transparency.

 

A significant shake-up within the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has led to the resignation of Peter Marks, a renowned vaccine official. Reports indicate that Marks was effectively compelled to resign during discussions with Health and Human Services (HHS) officials last Friday. Facing the ultimatum of resigning or being terminated, Marks submitted his letter of resignation, voicing serious concerns regarding the leadership of Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.

In his resignation letter, Marks expressed disappointment, stating, "It has become clear that truth and transparency are not desired by the Secretary, but rather he wishes subservient confirmation of his misinformation and lies." His resignation is scheduled to take effect on April 5. The HHS response emphasized the necessity for adherence to scientific standards, making it clear that Marks' lack of alignment with the agency's objectives under Kennedy's leadership was a factor in the decision.

Marks, who played a pivotal role in the development of COVID-19 vaccines during the Trump administration, lamented the rise of a measles outbreak in Texas as emblematic of what occurs when trust in established scientific public health practices declines. The recent measles outbreak has resulted in two fatalities and at least 523 confirmed cases, primarily in Texas.

Having served as director of the Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research at the FDA since 2016 and a member of the organization since 2012, Marks' departure is a significant loss for the FDA. Kennedy, a notable vaccine skeptic known for disseminating disproven health claims, has initiated a restructuring of HHS that entails slashing 10,000 jobs, including positions at both the FDA and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

This turbulent transition signals a contentious environment regarding health policies and the management of public health communications in the United States.

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