Trump Picks White House Aide Heidi Overton To Lead FDA
On Tuesday, August 18, 2026, President Trump decided to nominate Heidi Overton to lead the Food and Drug Administration, a choice that would shape federal health policy.[1]
Overton is deputy director of the White House Domestic Policy Council and was among several candidates under consideration for the post.[1] The FDA has been without a permanent commissioner since Marty Makary left earlier in 2026, and has operated under acting leadership.[1]
Last week Overton attended an Oval Office signing of an executive order to overhaul the childhood vaccine schedule, including separating the MMR vaccine into three shots.[1] Her visible role in that policy effort is likely to draw scrutiny during the confirmation process.
A formal nomination will need to be sent to and approved by the Senate before she can take office.
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📌 Key Facts
- On Tuesday, August 18, 2026, Axios reported that President Trump has decided to nominate Heidi Overton as FDA commissioner.
- Overton serves as deputy director of the White House Domestic Policy Council and was among multiple candidates under consideration.
- The FDA has been without a permanent commissioner since Marty Makary exited earlier in 2026.
- Overton attended last week's Oval Office signing of an executive order to overhaul the childhood vaccine schedule, including separating the MMR vaccine into three shots.
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