FDA Commissioner Resigns Post

Andrew von Eschenbach's expected resignation is official. The FDA Commissioner told his staff that he plans to resign effective January 20, 2009.The departure of von Eschenbach will intensify the search for a new FDA leader, which has become the focus of lobbying by industry, members of Congress, consumer-safety advocates, and women's groups.Janet Woodcock's name has been floated as interim commissioner. On December 5, however, Representative Bart Stupak of Michigan asked President-elect Obama in a letter not to name any current FDA officials to acting or permanent posts.The Wall Street Journal reports that von Eschenbach said the incoming administration is responsible for appointing an acting commissioner until Obama nominates, and the Senate confirms, a permanent FDA commissioner.