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The transcript below is from an interview with former FDA commissioner Scott Gottlieb, who is a board member at Pfizer and currently serves as the non-executive chairman of the board at Illumina. The interview was featured on “Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan” on June 29, 2025.
MARGARET BRENNAN: Today, we are joined by former FDA Commissioner Dr. Scott Gottlieb, who is also on the board at Pfizer and holds the position of Chairman of the Board at Illumina. Good morning, Dr. Gottlieb.
DOCTOR SCOTT GOTTLIEB: Good morning.
MARGARET BRENNAN: Dr. Gottlieb, having worked in the first Trump administration, how do you perceive the differences in public health policies under the current administration?
DR. GOTTLIEB: Yes, I had the privilege of serving in the first Trump administration, where we made significant advancements in public health, such as the approval of cell and gene therapies and expanding access to treatments through legislation like Right to Try. However, the current administration’s approach to public health, especially regarding the recent changes to the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, is concerning. The politicization of federal immunization policy, as highlighted by the American Academy of Pediatrics, raises serious doubts about the credibility of the decision-making process.
MARGARET BRENNAN: The recent overhaul of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices has raised alarm, with Secretary Kennedy making significant changes to the board composition. What are your thoughts on these developments?
DR. GOTTLIEB: The recent changes to the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, including the removal of members and the insertion of new appointees, have raised concerns about the politicization of vaccine policy. There is a growing perception that these decisions are politically motivated, rather than based on scientific evidence or public health priorities. The focus on restricting access to vaccines, particularly those championed by Secretary Kennedy and his anti-vax group, raises red flags about the direction of public health policy under the current administration.
MARGARET BRENNAN: One specific issue discussed was the recommendation to avoid flu vaccines containing thimerosal. What key information should the public be aware of regarding this ingredient?
DR. GOTTLIEB: The recent advice to avoid flu vaccines containing thimerosal and the removal of information debunking claims about its link to autism raise questions about transparency and scientific integrity. It is essential for the public to have accurate information about vaccine ingredients and their safety profiles. Claims that obscure the truth, as suggested by Secretary Kennedy, undermine public trust in immunization policies and public health agencies.
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The flu vaccine used to contain an ingredient called thimerosal. This preservative was mainly found in multi-dose vials of the flu vaccine, although only a small percentage of vials still contain it. Thimerosal was added to ensure the safety of the vaccine in multi-dose vials that are used to administer the vaccine to multiple patients. In the early 2000s, the FDA mandated manufacturers to remove thimerosal from vaccines due to concerns raised by anti-vax groups linking it to autism. Thimerosal contains ethylmercury, a type of mercury also found in fish, but in very small amounts. Most flu vaccines now do not contain thimerosal, except for about four percent of vaccines administered to adults from multi-dose vials. Some controversy surrounds this issue, with differing opinions between groups like the Children’s Health Defense Fund and CDC officials regarding the safety of thimerosal and its link to autism. Senator Bill Cassidy has raised concerns about the expertise of some ACIP board members in immunology and their potential bias against mRNA vaccines. It is important to have qualified individuals advising on immunizations to ensure public health safety.
During a recent meeting, there were several instances where certain members required basic explanations on scientific concepts. The CDC directors had to provide simplified guidance on vaccine science, indicating a need for more knowledgeable individuals on the board. Despite some skepticism, there is hope for the recruitment of competent members.
Moving on to healthcare innovation, the FDA’s approval of a long-acting HIV prevention drug, lenacapavir, is a significant advancement. This therapeutic provides six months of protection against HIV, showing promise in preventing infections among high-risk populations. Similarly, a biotech company has developed a pill for sustained flu protection, demonstrating ongoing progress in antiviral treatments.
While there are positive developments in therapeutics, concerns arise regarding vaccine innovation. The current investment climate has led to a decline in biotech startups focusing on new vaccines, potentially hindering progress in this area. It is essential to address this issue to support advancements in vaccine science, such as developing vaccines for diseases like Epstein-Barr Virus.
Regarding fluoride in water, there is a debate on its impact on health, with some states considering its removal. Secretary Kennedy highlighted concerns about potential effects on IQ levels and dental health. Parents should carefully evaluate information on fluoride and its potential consequences when making decisions about water fluoridation.
The inclusion of fluoride in water has been extensively researched and debunked. The small amount of fluoride added to the water supply has been proven to be safe. The CDC’s data indicates a 25% reduction in dental cavities due to the routine addition of fluoride to water. This not only impacts dental health but also overall oral and systemic health.
