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# Califf Agrees to Ethics Commitments to Bolster Nomination
- URL: https://www.fdaweb.com/califf-agrees-to-ethics-commitments-to-bolster-nomination/
- Published: 2022-01-31T12:00:00.000Z
- Updated: 2026-09-14T17:30:36.000Z
- Author: David McFarland
- Tags: FDA Policy/General, #legacy-id-D5151044

Presumably in a move to secure Senate support for his nomination, FDA commissioner nominee **Robert Califf** has agreed to significant ethics commitments. In a [1/27 letter](https://www.warren.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/FDA%20Califf%20Letter%20to%20Senator%20Warren.pdf?ref=fdaweb.com) to Senator **Elizabeth Warren** (D-MA), Califf committed to recuse himself from matters involving his former employers and clients for four years — two years longer than what is required in the Biden-Harris administration’s ethics pledge. He also agreed not to seek employment with or compensation from any pharmaceutical or medical device company that he interacts with during his tenure as FDA commissioner for four years after completing his government service. “In making these commitments, Dr. Califf has demonstrated a strong commitment to avoiding conflicts of interest and closing the revolving door between FDA and the industries it regulates,” Warren said.

The ethics commitments come at critical point in the nomination process. Califf is reportedly losing Senate backing and the White House has been slow to help advance his confirmation standing ([see earlier story](https://www.fdaweb.com/is-fda-commissioner-nominee-in-jeopardy/)). Some lawmakers have cited concern about Califf’s ties to industry. He most recently led health strategy and policy at Alphabet, Google’s parent company, and was paid millions in stock and more than $2.7 million in salary and bonuses. He must also divest holdings in health care companies including Amgen, Gilead Sciences, Bristol Myers Squibb and Walgreens Boots Alliance.