Sanders critical of Califf nomination

Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) said he would vote against confirming Robert Califf as FDA commissioner, citing the cardiologist's industry ties. In a statement, Sanders said Americans "need a new leader at the FDA who is prepared to stand up to the pharmaceutical companies and work to substantially lower drug prices. Unfortunately, I have come to the conclusion that Dr. Califf is not that person."

President Obama nominated Califf for commissioner last month. He has been deputy commissioner for medical products and tobacco since March. Califf took a leave of absence from his post as vice chancellor of clinical and translation research at Duke University School of Medicine to join FDA (see BioCentury, Feb. 2). ...