President Donald Trump's pick to lead the FDA, Scott Gottlieb, MD, is one step closer to becoming finalized, according to STAT.
Here are four points:
1. The Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions voted to move Dr. Gottlieb's confirmation to its final stage in a 14- to-nine vote.
2. Next steps entail the Senate floor voting on Dr. Gottlieb's nomination.
3. Some Democratic officials have voiced concern about the pick, saying Dr. Gottlieb has conflicts of interest due to his past healthcare and pharmaceutical ties. STAT reports Dr. Gottlieb has recused himself from agency work during his past experience as FDA commissioner and has vowed to do so again if these relationships pose issues.
4. Five senators request that Dr. Gottlieb answer more questions about how he would combat FDA funding and staffing issues before the final Senate vote.