Tracey Beth Høeg, a physician and epidemiologist with prior public‑health commentary on vaccine policy, was named acting director of the FDA’s Center for Drug Evaluation and Research. The appointment comes amid rapid turnover at CDER and follows internal controversy over vaccine and regulatory strategy. Analysts and industry sources flagged risks of staff departures and shifts in agency priorities tied to the leadership change. Observers noted Høeg’s published views and prior collaborations with senior agency figures, and some market analysts interpreted the move as potentially adverse for vaccine developers. The change adds to regulatory uncertainty as companies plan late‑stage submissions and post‑market strategies in an environment of heightened political scrutiny.