FDA Chief, Called ‘Bright Spot’ By Administration’s Toughest Critics, May Be On Short List For HHS Spot
Scott Gottlieb has won over many criticis by seeking to widen access to generic drugs, asserting that the agency should play a role in addressing the nation’s opioid epidemic, and announcing plans to tighten regulations on tobacco products. In other news, House Speaker Paul Ryan (R-Wis.) reportedly asked the White House to reconsider Tom Price's departure before the resignation of the secretary of Health and Human Services was announced.
Stat:
Scott Gottlieb Rocketed To The Top Of FDA. He May Keep Rising
When President Trump nominated Scott Gottlieb as the head of the Food and Drug Administration, he was quickly pegged by many as a conservative businessman who was cozy with the pharmaceutical industry. Seven months later, he is attracting praise from some of President Trump’s staunchest critics — including former Obama administration officials. He may also be in line to succeed his old boss, Tom Price, as secretary of health and human services. (Swetlitz, 10/4)
Politico:
Ryan Asked White House To Reconsider Ousting Price
Speaker Paul Ryan last week urged the White House to reconsider ousting Health and Human Services Secretary Tom Price, his longtime friend who had come under fire for often using taxpayer-funded private jets for travel, according to two people with knowledge of the call. John Kelly, the White House chief of staff, called the Wisconsin Republican minutes before the departure was announced Friday afternoon. It was a heads-up call, one White House official said. (Dawsey and Bade, 10/3)
The Hill:
Top Dem Demands Answers: Did Price Pay Back For Private Travel?
A top Democratic senator is demanding to know if former Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Tom Price has reimbursed taxpayers for his use of charter flights on official government business. In a letter obtained by The Hill, Sen. Patty Murray (D-Wash.) on Tuesday asked Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin to confirm whether Price has in fact sent a check to the U.S. Treasury, and for how much. (Weixel, 10/3)
