The three largest pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) in the pharmaceutical industry, UnitedHealth Group, CVS Health, and Cigna, have filed motions to disqualify Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Chair Lina Khan from an ongoing antitrust lawsuit.
The lawsuit accuses these companies of engaging in unfair rebate practices that allegedly contribute to the inflated prices of insulin.
The PBMs argue that Khan's public statements and prior appearances indicate a bias against them, which they claim undermines the integrity of the proceedings.
The PBMs are also seeking the recusal of Commissioners Alvaro Bedoya and Rebecca Kelly Slaughter, who have been involved in advancing the enforcement proceedings against them.
The companies contend that the FTC's actions are driven by a narrative that lacks comprehensive data, further complicating the legal landscape surrounding drug pricing and PBM practices.
The controversy surrounding Khan has sparked a broader political debate, drawing attention from both wealthy donors and members of Congress.
Prominent figures have publicly called for her removal from the FTC, expressing concerns over her aggressive antitrust approach.
The ongoing legal battles and public discourse surrounding PBMs reflect a critical moment in the healthcare industry, where transparency and accountability are increasingly demanded by consumers and regulators alike.
The outcome of the FTC's lawsuit against the PBMs could set a precedent for how these entities operate and are held accountable in the future.