Trump’s top lawyer at FDA resigns after outcry over record defending abortion pill
Caroline MolloyFDA chief counsel resigns after outcry over defense of abortion pill
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) chief counsel resigned Thursday following criticism from pro-life advocates for having defended abortion pills for the Biden administration.
As a trial lawyer with the Biden administration’s Department of Justice, Hilary Perkins defended access to the abortion pill mifepristone during a lawsuit against the FDA.
Sen. Josh Hawley of Missouri had criticized Perkins’ appointment in a post on X on Wednesday, saying “I can’t imagine anyone who would be more at odds with President Trump’s agenda.” His post followed an Axios story that drew attention to Perkins’ appointment.
Hawley noted that Perkins also opposed conscience rights for vaccines during COVID-19 and argued in favor of vaccine mandates.
Perkins joined the Department of Justice during Trump’s first term as a trial attorney at the Consumer Protection branch beginning in April 2019 and was retained by the Biden administration.
Acting FDA general counsel Sean Keveney appointed Perkins on Tuesday as part of a reorganization effort by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
“I’m pleased Makary has reconsidered that position and dismissed this lawyer,” Hawley said in a post on Thursday, referring to FDA commissioner-designate Marty Makary.
During his hearing last week, Makary had pledged to review safety policies surrounding the abortion pill.
