Trending Now - Ophthalmologist Emerges as Top Contender for FDA Vaccine Role

WHO:

NBC News - Dr. Houman Hemmati, an ophthalmologist critical of the government’s Covid vaccine response.

The Washington Post - Houman Hemmati, an ophthalmologist, entrepreneur, and frequent Fox News guest.

WHAT:

NBC News - Dr. Houman Hemmati is the front-runner for the role of the FDA's vaccine chief.

The Washington Post - The Trump administration is considering Hemmati for the position of the nation’s top regulator of vaccines and treatments for complex diseases.

WHERE:

The Washington Post - The discussions regarding Hemmati's potential appointment are taking place within the Trump administration.

WHEN:

NBC News - The information regarding Hemmati's candidacy is current as of April 14th, 2026.

The Washington Post - The discussions are described as internal conversations occurring recently.

WHY:

NBC News - Hemmati has been critical of the government’s Covid vaccine response, which may influence his candidacy.

The Washington Post - The consideration of Hemmati for the role reflects the Trump administration's ongoing efforts to appoint individuals aligned with their views on vaccine regulation.

HOW:

The Washington Post - The information about Hemmati's candidacy comes from three anonymous sources familiar with the internal discussions.

(UPDATED April 14, 2026 19:26 UTC)

Dr. Houman Hemmati, an ophthalmologist known for his critical stance on the government’s Covid vaccine response, is reportedly the front-runner for the role of the FDA's vaccine chief, as discussions within the Trump administration continue. The consideration of Hemmati for this position reflects the administration's efforts to appoint individuals who align with their views on vaccine regulation. This information, which has emerged from three anonymous sources familiar with the internal conversations, is current as of on Tuesday.