Pence-Linked Think Tank Demands FDA Documents on Abortion Pill

Advancing American Freedom, a think tank formerly led by Mike Pence, has formally requested documents from the Food and Drug Administration regarding the abortion pill, mifepristone. The organization is concerned about the FDA's approval process for the drug, alleging that shortcuts were taken under previous administrations. They believe these actions resulted in the approval of a drug that poses greater risks than previously acknowledged.

This request follows comments from FDA Commissioner Dr. Marty Makary, who stated he has no immediate plans to alter federal policies on mifepristone. However, he has expressed a willingness to consider concerns raised about the drug.

Advancing American Freedom initially submitted a Freedom of Information Act request almost a year ago, seeking documents related to the abortion drug that Congress had previously requested from the FDA in 1996. After receiving no response, the think tank filed a lawsuit to enforce compliance with their request.

In their recent letter to the FDA, the think tank expressed hope that the requested documents would be provided without further legal action. They referenced a recent study by the Ethics and Public Policy Center, which revealed that nearly 11% of women who take mifepristone experience serious adverse events within 45 days of the abortion. This rate is significantly higher than previously reported by the FDA.

The think tank's letter also acknowledged the FDA's commitment to reviewing the safety and efficacy of mifepristone. They believe the requested documents are crucial to understanding the FDA's past actions and the potential risks associated with the drug.