Makary Is Out, But the FDA Is Still Far From Normal

In an ideal world, this week’s resignation of Food and Drug Administration Commissioner Marty Makary would signal the end of a troubling period at the agency — one where the job of overseeing a sizable chunk of the US economy had steadily devolved into dysfunction and chaos.

Yet while Makary’s exit is welcome, it’s hard to imagine an easy path back to normalcy at the FDA. Whomever is confirmed as the permanent head will inherit an agency hobbled by mass layoffs and an exodus of career staff. They will need to restore public confidence and lead with a steady hand, all while grappling with intense political pressure.