Becerra’s confirmation, O’Connell nomination spotlight FDA commissioner choice

The Senate confirmation of Xavier Becerra as HHS secretary and President Joe Biden’s announcement that he will nominate Dawn O’Connell as HHS assistant secretary for preparedness and response shine a bright light on the remaining unfilled senior health policy position: FDA commissioner.

Rumors about Biden’s choice for the top FDA job are swirling around the beltway, but he hasn’t made a final decision, according to White House officials. The White House has asked former Obama administration officials to submit names of potential commissioner candidates but has not ruled out naming Acting FDA Commissioner Janet Woodcock to the position. ...