Wyden Announces Support for Robert Califf to Lead FDA

Following Letter Emphasizing Accountability for Accelerated Drug Approvals, Finance Chairman Backs FDA Commissioner Nominee

Washington, D.C. – Senate Finance Committee Chair Ron Wyden, D-Ore., today issued a statement of support for Dr. Robert Califf, nominated to be commissioner of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

“Too many families and taxpayers are paying sky-high prices for drugs that still haven’t been shown to have any clinical benefit, even as companies continue raising their prices. I appreciate Dr. Califf’s timely response to my letter to indicate that this issue will be a high priority and I look forward to receiving more details on the questions I raised once he is confirmed,” Wyden said. “The FDA has an indispensable role in protecting the health and safety of Americans. Americans are counting on the FDA to address serious health issues, from tobacco and e-cigarette use to the ongoing opioid and fentanyl crisis. I am prepared to support Dr. Califf’s nomination so that he can shift the FDA into high gear to take action on these challenges, and I will be watching closely to ensure that happens.”

Last week, Wyden asked the nominee to affirm his commitment to ensuring drug companies that receive accelerated approval for their products follow through and provide required evidence after approval, as is required by law. In his reply, Dr. Califf confirmed that “it is incumbent upon the FDA to ensure that the work does not end with the initial approval.”

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