Trump nominates Heidi Overton to lead US Food and Drug Administration

President Donald Trump has nominated Heidi Overton to lead the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Overton, a former policy officer at a Trump-aligned think tank, is expected to champion "America First" policies at the agency, which regulates food safety, drug standards, and public health. Trump described Overton as a "ROCKSTAR" who has worked on a "TRANSFORMATIVE Health Agenda" and is known for tackling difficult issues. Her nomination follows the resignation of the previous director, Dr. Marty Makary, in May. Overton's background includes medical school at the University of New Mexico and a doctorate from Johns Hopkins University. She has also been critical of abortion pills. The nomination requires confirmation by the US Senate.

President Donald Trump announced Wednesday that he has selected Dr. Heidi Overton, deputy director of the White House Domestic Policy Council, to lead the Food and Drug Administration. Overton, a medical doctor, has been a key figure in Trump's second-term health initiatives and is described as a trusted aide and champion of his goals. If confirmed by the Senate, she will face the challenge of balancing competing priorities, including those of Trump, traditional Republicans, and Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. This role follows the departure of former FDA head Dr. Marty Makary, who left behind unfinished projects. Overton has previously promoted Trump's health agenda, including controversial vaccine orders and drug pricing initiatives.

Donald Trump has nominated Dr. Heidi Overton to be the next Commissioner of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Overton, an abortion opponent, has previously advocated for strict regulation of the abortion drug mifepristone, calling for Congress to regulate it "to protect women and children." She also appeared with Trump at a press conference promoting an executive order to separate childhood vaccines into individual shots, a move criticized by health experts. Trump stated Overton is "SMART and RESPECTED by all" and will work to advance his health agenda, including faster cures and lower drug prices. The FDA regulates drugs, medical devices, and food supply, and also oversees medication abortions.