Planned Parenthood CEO rejects talks with ‘bullies’

A substantial drop in federal appointments has left critical National Institutes of Health advisory councils severely understaffed, prompting concerns about the future of billions in biomedical research funding and exacerbating existing tensions within the nation’s health policy framework.

An analysis by STAT of annual reports filed in December reveals that only a limited number of new members were appointed to NIH advisory councils last year. With the expiration of current members' terms and multiple resignations, the majority of the 25 councils are now functioning with fewer than half of their authorized members.

The councils are essential in evaluating and determining which research projects will ultimately receive federal funding at universities and medical centers across the country.

Ned Sharpless, the former director of the National Cancer Institute, remarked that the confirmation of new council members “has always been a slow matter.” “However, this situation is distinct,” he stated, affirming that the present downturn is exceptionally intense.

A sitting council member expressed to STAT that “it appears to be a way to subtly dismantle everything at NIH without taking any direct action.”

The current vacancies have raised concerns about whether the lack of action stems from administrative inertia or a calculated approach to diminish the agency’s influence while avoiding formal budget cuts. Officials at the NIH have yet to provide a public explanation regarding the speed of appointments.

This week, tensions surrounding federal health policy were evident as Planned Parenthood CEO Alexis McGill Johnson convened with congressional allies to deliberate on the organization's future in light of ongoing attempts to limit its funding.

McGill Johnson expressed her disinterest in negotiating with Republican leaders who have set their sights on the organization.

“I find it hard to envision engaging in negotiations with bullies,” she expressed to STAT. “Altering our approach would necessitate engaging in discussions with those who intimidate.”

Planned Parenthood has endured extensive political and financial challenges, marked by the reduction of federal abortion protections and ongoing efforts to cut funding for the organization. McGill Johnson stated that the group will maintain its strong stance in Washington, even as it prepares for the upcoming midterm elections.

She characterized the U.S. health care system as “in crisis” and expressed hope that more leaders in the health sector will stand up to federal pressure rather than compromise to safeguard their institutions.

“Tyranny exploits fear,” she stated. “However, when we unite, fear diminishes.”

The Trump administration has yet to respond to McGill Johnson’s comments.

Health policy experts say these two events show a tough time for federal health organizations, marked by delays in hiring, political challenges, and changes in rules that are affecting how science funding and reproductive health services are managed.

The National Institutes of Health faces a pressing issue: the absence of complete councils may hinder grant reviews and funding decisions, potentially stalling critical research on cancer, infectious diseases, and chronic illnesses.

Planned Parenthood is navigating a critical battle focused on its survival and strategic maneuvers to safeguard Medicaid coverage and federal backing amid a highly divided political landscape.

Experts indicate that both conflicts will significantly influence the direction of U.S. health policy moving forward.

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