RFK Jr. Backs Trump’s Glyphosate Policy Despite Past Criticism
Recently, Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. voiced his support for President Donald Trump’s initiative to safeguard and promote the production of pesticide precursor chemicals. Interestingly, just two years prior, he had identified this very issue as a significant contributor to “America’s chronic disease epidemic” and vowed to ban it if elected president.
Earlier this week, President Trump issued an executive order protecting a precursor component vital for the production of glyphosate, a widely used herbicide. Trump’s order emphasized that glyphosate-based herbicides are crucial for the agricultural productivity of the United States.
This directive has sparked a backlash from advocates of the “Make America Healthy Again (MAHA)” campaign. In June 2024, while still in the presidential race, Kennedy tweeted that “Glyphosate is one of the leading culprits in America’s chronic disease epidemic.”
Kennedy has stated, “The herbicide glyphosate is potentially linked to America’s chronic disease crisis. It’s used far more extensively in the U.S. than in Europe. Surprisingly, the majority of our exposure comes from its use as a desiccant on wheat, not merely as a herbicide. Once applied, glyphosate directly enters our bodies.” He added that if he were to lead the Department of Agriculture, he would ban this practice.
The MAHA committee’s report released in May 2025 has also raised concerns about glyphosate. It noted that while some studies suggest a connection between these chemicals and negative health outcomes, especially in children, comprehensive human studies remain limited. The report outlines potential health risks associated with glyphosate, including reproductive issues, developmental disorders, cancer, liver inflammation, and metabolic disruptions.
While President Trump’s action received praise from agricultural leaders, it faced stern criticism from MAHA supporters. Kelly Ryerson, co-executive director of American Regeneration and a prominent figure within MAHA, expressed disappointment, stating, “This move betrays the very voters of MAHA who put this administration in office. It contradicts the president’s initial promise to confront the role of pesticides in chronic disease.”
Another MAHA supporter, Alex Clark, likened the situation to a relationship gone awry, saying, “I feel like MAHA is going through a breakup or just found out that our husband was having an affair,” as she shared her sentiments with The Wall Street Journal.
When asked to comment, RFK Jr. reaffirmed that Trump’s glyphosate directive “puts America first where it matters most,” highlighting its relevance to national defense and food security. He stated, “We must protect America’s national security, as all priorities hinge on it. When adversaries control essential resources, our security is compromised. By boosting domestic production, we aim to close that gap and safeguard American families.”
