Joe Biden picks former FDA Chief r David Kessler to lead Operation Warp Speed

Just a day after launching a colossal stimulus pack, US President-elect Joe Biden has picked Dr David Kessler to help lead Operation Warp Speed which aims to expedite development and distribution of COVID-19vaccine jabs across American territory. Dr Kessler, a paediatrician and lawyer by profession, had led Food and Drug Administration (FDA) during both Obama administration as well as Clinton Administration. appointment marks a major step towards incoming leader’s vow to deliver 100 million vaccine shots in first 100 days of his administration.

Read: Biden Asking Americans To Recommit To Masks

Dr Kessler has been a staunch Democrat and has already been a key advisor to Biden on his COVID-19 policies and also been co-chair of Biden-Harris Transition team’s COVID-19 task force. 69-year-old would replace Dr Moncef Slaoui, a researcher and former drug company executive, who would be demoted to rank of a consultant to Operation Warp Speed. In addendum to new appointments, incoming Biden administration also aims to re-name initiative, CNN reported.

Kessler charged with vaccine distribution 

While Operation Warp Speed has received accolades for successfully developing two vaccine candidates, ir distribution has often attracted flack from American residents. Upon assuming his new role, Dr Kessler would primarily need to resolve problem. Working alongside Gen. Gustave F Perna, Kessler would be charged with manufacturing, distribution and safety and efficacy of vaccines.

US with 23,524,081 cases and 391,955 fatalities is still battered by coronavirus pandemic. Meanwhile, Biden on January 14 revealed “key elements of American rescue plan”, which includes aid to small businesses, extended unemployment support and food assistance. While taking to Twitter, Biden listed his plan following which Vice President-elect Kamala Harris also backed him by saying “we will finish job”. Biden is set to be inaugurated on January 20 and program titled 'Celebrating America’ is aimed to celebrate sprite of all frontline workers and people who have contributed to society with ir ble and humanitarian work. 

Read: Biden's Virus Plan: 100 Million Shots Just Start

"Direct cash payments. Extended unemployment. Rent relief. Food assistance. Aid to small businesses. Keeping essential frontline workers on job. Those are key elements of my American Rescue Plan," Biden said in a statement. 

Read: Trump To Leave Washington On Morning Of Biden's Inauguration

Read: Biden: Aid To Small Business, Unemployment Key Elements Of American Rescue Plan