Sen. Cruz Criticizes FDA Over Puberty Blockers for Minors

Senator Ted Cruz has publicly condemned the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) following revelations that a team leader within the agency advocated for the approval of puberty blockers for transgender minors. This endorsement comes despite the acknowledgment of associated risks, including increased rates of suicide, depression, and seizures. Cruz accused the Biden-Harris administration of prioritizing "radical gender ideology" over child safety, suggesting that the FDA's actions could endanger vulnerable youth. The controversy arose from emails obtained by the conservative nonprofit America First Legal during a lawsuit discovery process. The FDA's Division of Urology, Obstetrics, and Gynecology had previously conducted listening sessions with transgender youth and adults, indicating a perceived need for these drugs, which are often not covered by insurance and can be costly. The FDA has approved GnRH agonists for central precocious puberty but has not sanctioned their use for gender dysphoria. Ian Prior, a senior adviser at America First Legal, expressed outrage at the FDA's dual stance of recognizing the mental health risks of puberty blockers while simultaneously recommending their approval for minors. He called for the federal government to align with European nations in banning such medical interventions on children, labeling the practice as "barbarism." America First Legal has initiated legal action against the FDA for allegedly concealing records related to the off-label use of puberty blockers and cross-sex hormones in children. The organization has also filed a Freedom of Information Act request to obtain all relevant FDA records concerning these treatments. The FDA did not respond to requests for comment by the time of publication.