STAT+: White House reviewing top contenders to lead FDA

STAT PlusBreaking News White House reviewing top contenders to lead FDA Heidi Overton, Jeffrey Vacirca, and Stephen Ferrara are among finalists Manage alerts for this article Email this article Share this article By Daniel PayneJuly 8, 2026 Washington Correspondent Daniel Payne[email protected]Daniel covers the intersection of the health industry and the federal government. He reports on corporate influence in government, the health consequences of federal policies, and the politics of health care. Confidential tips can be sent on Signal at danielp.100. WASHINGTON — The top contenders to lead the Food and Drug Administration have been sent to the White House for a final review and decision, according to a person familiar with the process. The finalists include Heidi Overton, a White House adviser; Jeffrey Vacirca, an oncologist and health system executive; and Stephen Ferrara, a health affairs official at the Department of Defense. STAT+ Exclusive Story Already have an account? Log in This article is exclusive to STAT+ subscribers Unlock this article — plus in-depth analysis, newsletters, premium events, and news alerts. Already have an account? Log in Monthly $39 Totals $468 per year $39/month Get Started Totals $468 per year Starter $30 for 3 months, then $399/year $30 for 3 months Get Started Then $399/year Annual $399 Save 15% $399/year Get Started Save 15% 11+ Users Custom Savings start at 25%! Request A Quote Request A Quote Savings start at 25%! 2-10 Users $300 Annually per user $300/year Get Started $300 Annually per user View All Plans To read the rest of this story subscribe to STAT+. Subscribe Log In FDA, HHS, Pharmaceuticals, Policy, STAT+, White House Submit a correction requestReprints Daniel Payne Washington Correspondent Daniel covers the intersection of the health industry and the federal government. He reports on corporate influence in government, the health consequences of federal policies, and the politics of health care. Confidential tips can be sent on Signal at danielp.100. Newsletter The latest updates in federal health agencies, research institutes, and U.S. policy Recommended Exclusive July 8, 2026 STAT Plus: In private meeting, Trump officials push to onshore generic drugmaking Biotech July 6, 2026 STAT Plus: Vertex acquires Crinetics Pharmaceuticals for $10 billion as biotech M&A booms Advertisement Business July 2, 2026 STAT Plus: Medicare takes another swing at 340B cuts to hospitals Business July 2, 2026 STAT Plus: Elevance sues government over $115 million tied to Medicare Advantage star ratings Biotech June 30, 2026 STAT Plus: Anthropic releases Claude Science, a product aimed at researchers, the pharma industry Subscriber Picks