FDA Vaccine Chief Peter Marks Resigns Amid Controversy Over Transparency

Peter Marks, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) top vaccine official, has resigned after reportedly being forced out by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), according to The Wall Street Journal. Marks, who played a pivotal role in the development of COVID-19 vaccines during former President Donald Trump's first term, was given an ultimatum to resign or be fired, the report said.

In his resignation letter addressed to acting FDA Commissioner Sara Brenner, Marks criticized the current HHS leadership, stating, “It has become clear that truth and transparency are not desired by the Secretary, but rather he wishes subservient confirmation of his misinformation and lies.” His resignation is effective April 5.

An anonymous HHS official responded, saying, “If Peter Marks does not want to get behind restoring science to its golden standard and promoting radical transparency, then he has no place at FDA under the strong leadership of Secretary Kennedy.”

HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a controversial figure known for spreading vaccine misinformation, recently revealed plans to overhaul federal public health agencies. His proposal includes cutting 10,000 jobs and consolidating certain operations of the FDA, CDC, and other agencies under his control.

Neither the FDA nor the Trump administration provided comments to Reuters outside business hours. Reuters also could not immediately reach Marks for comment.

Dr. Marks, director of the FDA’s Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, testified frequently before Congress and was widely respected for his scientific leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic. His sudden departure raises concerns about the future direction of the FDA and the federal government’s approach to public health policy.

This development highlights ongoing tensions within U.S. health agencies amid efforts to centralize authority and reshape scientific governance.