FDA nominee Heidi Overton avoids taking positions in Senate hearing on vaccines, China and abortion

Heidi Overton, President Trump’s pick to lead the Food and Drug Administration, appeared before the Senate health committee for a two hour hearing. Senators focused their questions on China, vaccine policy and access to the abortion medication mifepristone.

Overton, a preventive medicine physician from rural New Mexico who previously served in the White House, answered by citing existing FDA guidance and approvals rather than stating her own stance. She did not indicate whether she would change current policies on the issues raised.

Committee members noted the lack of direct answers. Sen. Chris Murphy remarked that she was avoiding answering questions. The hearing leaves uncertainty about how the agency might be steered under her leadership.