FDA layoffs are stirring controversy as mass firings jeopardize operations and accusations of political favoritism. FOIA departments are in chaos while vaccine document processing is seemingly prioritized. Amid rising concerns, claims of impartiality and transparency hang by a thread.
Mass Layoffs and FOIA Operations Halted
As the FDA executed mass layoffs, FOIA operations were severely disrupted. Staff across sectors lost jobs, sparing employees dealing with vaccine cases.
Mass firings at FDA spared at least some workers furnishing gov't docs in response to FOIA lawsuits about covid vaccines.
Those lawsuits were brought by Aaron Siri, an ally of HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s who represents anti-vaccine interestshttps://t.co/VcA732gWeW
— Rachana D. Pradhan (@rachanadpradhan) April 10, 2025
Layoffs affected divisions handling public records across FDA, NIH, and CDC. This move is seen as part of HHS’s broader reorganization.
Concerns over Political Favoritism
Lawyer Aaron Siri, representing anti-vaccine interests, has not faced setbacks. His FOIA lawsuits successfully obtained records from Pfizer and Moderna.
Exclusive: RFK Jr.'s purge of HHS Freedom of Information Act offices spared one group of workers at FDA, who have been pulling documents on covid vaccines in response to a lawsuit by Kennedy ally Aaron Siri.
By @rachanadpradhan via @KFFHealthNews https://t.co/GaBAvmF0sx
— Alex Wayne (@aawayne) April 10, 2025
RFK Jr.’s involvement raises eyebrows over fairness. Millions of vaccine documents have been released to comply with court orders.
Questionable Transparency and Public Safety
Critics argue layoffs prioritize political motives, undermining transparency. The disruption risks public health and safety amid ongoing restructuring.
“We must be able to raise valid questions about vaccines without fear that anyone who deviates from the accepted orthodoxy will be smeared as a radical. Many issues divide Americans, but drug and vaccine safety should unite us.” – Aaron Siri.
The FOIA law promotes accountability, but staff cuts challenge its aim. Disputes arise over the necessity and the impact of organizational changes.