Dr. Vinay Prasad, a hematologist oncologist, has returned to his top role at the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) after weeks of pressure from the White House and right-wing activist Laura Loomer. Prasad had initially resigned in late July due to concerns he was becoming a distraction.
The move came amid criticism from Loomer, who accused Prasad of being a “progressive leftist saboteur” and undermining President Trump’s FDA legacy. However, Prasad’s departure also sparked controversy after internal memos revealed he overruled FDA scientists on Covid-19 vaccine recommendations.
Despite the backlash, Prasad will resume leadership of the Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research at the FDA’s request. It is unclear whether he will retain his role as FDA chief medical and scientific officer. The White House had pressured him to resign, but a spokesperson said there was no comment on this aspect.
Source: https://edition.cnn.com/2025/08/09/politics/fda-official-dr-vinay-prasad-returns-to-agency-after-loomer-ouster