Trump Recycles Healthcare Talking Points in Light-on-Policy State of the Union
Summary:
In his record-long State of the Union address, Donald Trump touted lower prescription drug prices, “Most Favored Nation” drug deals, and his proposed “Great Healthcare Plan,” while urging Congress to codify these efforts. However, he introduced few new healthcare policies, offered limited details on implementation, and faced skepticism about whether his proposals would meaningfully reduce costs for most Americans.
GSK to Acquire 35Pharma for $950 Million to Boost Respiratory Pipeline
Summary:
GSK has agreed to acquire Canadian biotech 35Pharma for $950 million in cash, marking the second major deal under new CEO Luke Miels as the company seeks to offset upcoming patent expiries and strengthen its drug pipeline. The acquisition centers on HS235, an early-stage pulmonary hypertension therapy that could expand GSK’s respiratory portfolio, following recent deals including the $2.2 billion purchase of RAPT Therapeutics.
Senators, Patients and Biotech Leaders Challenge FDA’s Rare Disease Review Process
Summary:
At a Senate hearing, physicians, patient advocates and biotech executives criticized the Food and Drug Administration for regulatory rigidity and inconsistent use of flexibility in rare disease reviews, citing the rejection of Biohaven’s spinocerebellar ataxia drug and a rise in complete response letters as evidence that patients are being harmed by delays. Lawmakers including Kirsten Gillibrand called for greater transparency, faster trial launches and broader acceptance of real-world evidence, while FDA leaders defended their commitment to ensuring therapies are safe and effective.
USITC Launches Probe into Chinese State Support and Biotech Pricing Practices
Summary:
The U.S. International Trade Commission has initiated a factfinding investigation into Chinese state support and pricing practices in biotechnology – including genomic sequencing, synthetic biology, and API manufacturing – to assess their impact on U.S. industry competitiveness and market share. Requested by the Senate Appropriations Committee, the probe will include a public hearing in May 2026 and culminate in a report by January 2027 outlining findings but offering no policy recommendations.
Midsize Biotechs Form Alliance to Oppose Trump’s MFN Drug Pricing Policy
Summary:
A group of 10 U.S. biotech firms – including Acadia, Alnylam and BioMarin – has launched the Midsized Biotech Alliance of America to oppose Donald Trump’s most-favored-nation (MFN) drug pricing policy, arguing it could slash revenues and threaten the survival of companies with limited commercial portfolios. The coalition contends that while large pharmaceutical companies can absorb pricing pressures, midsize innovators – responsible for billions in R&D and dozens of approved therapies – face disproportionate risk that could undermine U.S. biotech competitiveness and innovation.
