U.S. Senators Roger Wicker and Cindy Hyde-Smith of Mississippi have joined 49 other senators in calling for the Trump administration to reevaluate the recent approval of a generic version of mifepristone, a widely used medication for chemical abortions.
The senators addressed their concerns in a letter to Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. and Food and Drug Administration Commissioner Dr. Martin Makary. They cited recent acknowledgments by these agencies regarding data discrepancies related to abortion pill safety and noted ongoing commitments to review the scientific evidence surrounding mifepristone.
“We commend your recent statements acknowledging the data discrepancies surrounding abortion pill safety and your commitment to reviewing the science. We are also encouraged by HHS’s recent announcement that it will review prior Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategies (REMS) approvals given the recent studies raising concerns about the drug’s safety,” the lawmakers wrote. “Given this commitment, however, we are deeply concerned about the FDA’s approval of a new generic version of mifepristone. While we recognize the FDA’s statutory responsibility in evaluating drug applications, the timing of this approval appears inconsistent with the comprehensive safety reassessment your agencies have prioritized. Out of respect for this important review, and with full confidence in your dedication to protecting women’s health, states’ rights, and unborn life, we urge you to take decisive action to reevaluate whether this generic version of mifepristone is suitable to enter the market.”
The letter argues that mifepristone poses health risks for both unborn children and pregnant women. It also claims that the FDA’s decision conflicts with state laws that restrict abortion access.
“Unrestricted access to abortion pills is systematically undermining states’ rights and violating pro-life state laws. Every month, thousands of abortion drugs are shipped into states that have otherwise limited access to abortion after Dobbs, degrading pro-life laws at the state level across the country,” the lawmakers said.
Additionally, the senators believe that HHS and FDA already possess sufficient information to reverse previous abortion regulations established under Democratic administrations while conducting a comprehensive review. The letter recommends suspending approvals for any new generic versions of mifepristone, including all generics in the ongoing review process, and reinstating requirements for in-person dispensing.
The letter was led by Senator Lindsey Graham of South Carolina and signed by several other Republican senators from across the country.
Support for this request comes from various advocacy groups including Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America, National Right to Life, Family Research Council, Human Coalition, Students for Life Action, Family Policy Alliance, Liberty Counsel Action, ERLC, Concerned Women for America, Eagle Forum, CatholicVote, and Christian Medical and Dental Associates.
