Dr. Peter Marks, the top vaccine official at the Food and Drug Administration, resigned on Friday under pressure. He cited Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s irresponsible stance on vaccines as a danger to public health.
In a letter to Sara Brenner, the acting commissioner of the agency, Dr. Marks criticized the lack of truth and transparency desired by the secretary, highlighting his focus on misinformation and lies. He reiterated this sentiment in an interview, expressing concern that Mr. Kennedy prioritized gaining followers over the truth.
Dr. Marks was given an ultimatum to either resign or be fired during a meeting at the Department of Health and Human Services. He led the agency’s Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, overseeing the authorization and safety monitoring of vaccines and other treatments.