The FDA declined to review Moderna's application for approval of its new mRNA flu vaccine.[1] In a letter, the regulator called Moderna's 40,000-person clinical trial inadequate because it did not compare the new vaccine to the "best available standard of care" in the United States at the time of the study.[1] The study concluded that the new vaccine is slightly more effective than the standard vaccine in adults aged 50 and over.[1] According to its letter, the FDA recommended that a different brand of vaccine specifically recommended for seniors be used in the study for those over 65.[1] Moderna claims that the FDA initially approved the study as it was and that the company did not accept recommendations from FDA officials during former President Joe Biden's administration.[1] In an interview, Moderna President Stephen Hoge commented on this FDA decision and its impact on the company.[1]