No Hanky Panky at FDA: Crawford Confirmation Moves Forward
BY JOHN MCCORMICK, JUNE 9, 2005
An inquiry requested by Wyoming Senator Mike Enzi, concluded yesterday clearing acting Food and Drug Administration Commissioner Lester Crawford of having an extramarital affair with an agency employee. The inquiry was conducted by the inspector general of the Department of Health and Human Services. Questions arose when Crawford apparently paid unusual attention to the woman's promotion and assisted her in applying for the job.
Mr. Crawford was nominated by President Bush to become FDA Commissioner on a permanent basis nearly four months ago, but his appointment has been held up by this investigation. Senator Enzi has now stated that the findings clear the way for Crawford's confirmation vote. Note that really means that Crawford first has to get Enzi's committee to vote and then get the Senate vote where he is likely to face some flak from Democrats.
