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# Grossman Backs Overton for FDA Head Following Hearing
- URL: https://www.fdaweb.com/grossman-backs-overton-for-fda-head-following-hearing/
- Published: 2026-09-29T19:37:09.000Z
- Updated: 2026-09-29T19:37:09.000Z
- Author: David McFarland
- Tags: FDA Policy/General

FDA policy analyst and former HHS official **Steven Grossman** said FDA commissioner nominee **Heidi Overton** demonstrated at her confirmation hearing that she understands the agency must remain grounded in law, science and established regulatory processes, arguing that she could be a productive commissioner despite the difficult political environment she would face.

Writing in a 9/29 *MedPage Today* [opinion piece](https://www.medpagetoday.com/opinion/second-opinions/123182?xid=nl%5Fsecondopinion%5F2026-09-29&mh=085bcd217c75c966987c80d7cb650508&zdee=gAAAAABm4uYhhfXnCVc2bYyMg-xueXfUz5KD7zE0tNFJMEyavKpH3tq3dS4Yvds0FXtAqemwoJ7mnF2315TPuoTfq1N9u2fB8f1zD0na4ppl4kkoc03CbMw%3D&utm%5Fsource=Sailthru&utm%5Fmedium=email&utm%5Fcampaign=SecondOpinions%5F092926), Grossman said Overton repeatedly stressed two principles during her Senate Health Education Labor & Pensions committee hearing [earlier this month](https://www.fdaweb.com/overton-pledges-science-based-fda-decisions-at-confirmation-hearing-d5161836/) — products FDA has determined to be safe and effective remain so unless the agency reviews new evidence and reaches a different conclusion, and FDA must continue applying statutory safety and effectiveness standards.

Grossman pointed in particular to Overton's statements supporting the safety of FDA-approved vaccines, including the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine. He said her answers demonstrated an understanding of "core FDA values" and the principles underlying the agency's regulatory reputation. He was less impressed with Overton's responses on mifepristone, noting that she largely deferred questions because the agency is conducting an ongoing safety evaluation.

Grossman acknowledged weaknesses in Overton’s background, including a lack of experience managing a large organization and a relatively narrow range of previous work. Still, he said she displayed the knowledge, temperament and respect for FDA's scientific staff necessary for the position.

The larger challenge, Grossman contended, would be navigating pressure from President Trump and HHS secretary **Robert F. Kennedy Jr.**, both of whom have publicly weighed in on issues falling within FDA's jurisdiction. He said Overton would inevitably have to decide when to push back, compromise or accept administration policy.

"My support for Overton rests on her cooperative tone, respectful demeanor, and recognition that the FDA is bound by law, science, and process," Grossman wrote.

Overton still requires approval from the HELP Committee and confirmation by the full Senate. According to Grossman, that process cannot resume until the Senate returns from its pre-election recess 11/9.