STAT+: At a time of tumult at FDA, a former commissioner is hopeful it’s on a better path

STAT PlusPolitics At a time of tumult at FDA, a former commissioner is hopeful it’s on a better path David Kessler said acting leader Kyle Diamantas has what it takes to bring stability Manage alerts for this article Email this article Share this article By Anil OzaMay 19, 2026 General Assignment Reporter Anil Oza[email protected]Anil Oza is a general assignment reporter at STAT focused on the NIH and health equity. You can reach him on Signal at aniloza.16. With the Food and Drug Administration facing upheaval and in the aftermath of a series of high-profile exits, former commissioner David Kessler sees an inflection point whereby the agency can now make a turn for the better.

Kessler told an audience at STAT’s Breakthrough Summit West on Tuesday that he has high hopes that the FDA’s newly appointed acting commissioner, Kyle Diamantas, will be able to serve as a stabilizing force for the agency. Advertisement While Diamantas is an attorney and not, like most FDA commissioners, a medical doctor, Kessler said he had “great confidence” in him, adding: “I think he understands the process.” STAT+ Exclusive Story Already have an account? Log in This article is exclusive to STAT+ subscribers Unlock this article — plus daily intelligence on Capitol Hill and the life sciences industry — by subscribing to STAT+.

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