Trump Nominates Heidi Overton for FDA Commissioner

President Donald Trump announced on August 19, 2026, that he is nominating Heidi Overton, a White House aide, to lead the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). In a post on Truth Social, Trump described Overton as a significant contributor to his administration's health agenda. Overton previously served as a domestic policy adviser and was a chief policy officer at the America First Policy Institute, a conservative think tank. If confirmed, she would succeed former FDA Commissioner Marty Makary, who resigned on May 12, 2026. Makary's resignation was partly due to his reluctance to approve regulatory changes regarding flavored vapes. Overton is known for her anti-abortion stance and has previously expressed concerns about abortion pills. Anti-abortion leaders believe she could advance the FDA's review of the abortion pill mifepristone. Trump highlighted Overton's qualifications, noting her medical background and academic credentials. Her confirmation would require approval from a Senate with a narrow Republican majority, and she will face a hearing in the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions. Other candidates considered for the role included Republican Rep. Buddy Carter and oncologist Jeff Vacirca.