FDA commissioner search slowed by tobacco settlement proposal.
This article was originally published in The Tan Sheet
Executive Summary
FDA COMMISSIONER SEARCH SLOWED BY TOBACCO SETTLEMENT PROPOSAL as the Clinton Administration needs time to consider the change in political landscape for FDA. Following the departure of David Kessler, MD, in February, the Administration appeared to be hoping to finesse the tobacco issue by choosing a candidate who would be less openly antagonistic to the tobacco industry. The conclusion of settlement negotiations, however, has brought the issue of FDA's role in the regulation of cigarettes back to prominence, ensuring that tobacco potentially could be the sole focus of Capitol Hill discussions of a commissioner nominee.