Food and Drug Administration chief Marty Makary, along with NIH's Jay Bhattacharya, has become involved in launching the Journal of the Academy of Public Health. The journal, dominated by a small clique of COVID contrarians and listing its founders as 'on leave', has raised concerns about promoting misinformation and undermining public trust in established health science.

The FDA, a critical public health agency, saw roughly 20% of its workforce laid off in a politically driven reorganization led by the Trump administration. The reduction has disrupted regulatory functions, delayed drug approvals, and raised serious concerns about worker rights and the agency's ability to safeguard public health.

In response to disruptions in drug safety, food safety, and inspection operations, the FDA has decided to reverse some of the layoffs initiated under HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s administration. The move aims to restore essential functions by reinstating scientists and support staff in key locations including Puerto Rico, Detroit, Chicago, and San Francisco.

On April 19, 2025, the FDA announced new restrictions limiting the participation of Big Pharma representatives in its advisory committees. This policy aims to reduce corporate influence over drug safety decisions and promote transparency and public trust in the regulatory process by ensuring that advisory committee recommendations are based on scientific evidence and public health needs rather than corporate profit.

An executive order by President Trump and directives from Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency have led to significant staff reductions at the FDA, particularly affecting probationary employees. Experts warn that these cuts could impair public health oversight and weaken regulatory capacity in critical areas such as drug, device, and food safety.

Due to budget cuts under the Trump administration, significant layoffs at the FDA—especially in departments overseeing food, medical devices, and tobacco products—have raised concerns about the agency's ability to safeguard public health and maintain effective regulatory oversight, potentially harming vulnerable communities.

On June 22, the FDA granted accelerated approval to Elevidys, a gene therapy for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, despite insufficient evidence of clinical benefit and significant safety concerns. The decision, reached by a divided advisory committee amid persuasive but anecdotal patient testimonies, raises concerns that political pressures and industry influence may be compromising the agency's traditional role as a dispassionate evaluator.