Former CMS acting administrator Andy Slavitt says agency’s direction during Biden administration depends on nominee, but trust fund’s looming insolvency will be ‘an issue you can’t avoid.’ The president’s priorities around health equity, racial justice and mental health will make their way into CMS policy and demonstration models, Slavitt suggests.

A more conservative US Supreme Court may mean a less authoritative FDA, and drug pricing won’t get as much attention in the presidential campaign, which is a good thing.

The latest flurry of Executive Order activity on drug pricing reinforces the message that the President wants to own the headlines for being tough on the drug industry as Election Day looms. Looking for substance beyond that goal is a fool’s errand – but the headlines could still have significant consequences no matter who wins in November.