George Tidmarsh resigned as director of the FDA’s Center for Drug Evaluation and Research two days after being placed on administrative leave while the Department of Health and Human Services investigated alleged personal‑conduct issues. The agency said the move was effective immediately and reiterated expectations for high ethical standards among senior staff. Tidmarsh’s abrupt exit compounds months of leadership churn at CDER and follows public controversies that have drawn intense industry and media scrutiny. BioCentury and other outlets reported internal turmoil and questions about decision‑making, raising concerns about regulatory continuity. Industry sources warn the leadership gap increases regulatory uncertainty for late‑stage drug reviews and high‑stakes filings. FDA officials and stakeholders say the agency must restore stable, transparent leadership to avoid delays affecting drug approvals and industry planning.
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