Supporters of the “Make America Healthy Again” (MAHA) movement are increasingly voicing their discontent with Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and the Trump administration. Frustrations are mounting over perceived failures to deliver on promises related to food safety and environmental health.
A scorecard published by MAHA activists claims that the Trump administration has not fulfilled over 85% of its commitments to the movement, particularly regarding food and pesticide regulations. This scorecard, which includes input from former Kennedy campaign members like Dave Murphy and Charles Eisenstein, highlights a growing schism between MAHA supporters and their once-cherished leader.
In an exclusive report, NBC News outlines how MAHA activists accuse the administration of prioritizing corporate interests over public health. They point to recent approvals of new pesticides and the hiring of industry lobbyists as evidence of a betrayal of MAHA’s core values. Former Kennedy campaign adviser Tiffany Cianci emphasized the deep disappointment felt within the movement, calling for the administration to uphold even basic promises.
Recent polls indicate that about 41% of U.S. adults support MAHA ideals, although many do not affiliate strongly with Kennedy or Trump. MAHA emerged during Kennedy’s 2024 presidential run and has since aligned with Trump, aiming to unite various social movements against what they perceive as harmful corporate practices.
However, as Kennedy’s leadership comes under scrutiny, advocates are beginning to voice their dissatisfaction publicly. Critics argue that Kennedy has not sufficiently addressed the issues they care about, such as the removal of harmful additives from food and stricter regulations on pesticides. Dr. Mary Talley Bowden, a vocal skeptic of vaccines, has expressed her disappointment with Kennedy and Trump for allowing certain vaccines to remain on the market.
This growing discontent has led to internal conflicts among MAHA supporters, with some loyal to Kennedy and others pushing for a return to the movement’s original mission. Peter Lurie, president of the Center for Science in the Public Interest, noted the widening gap within the coalition, stating that what began as minor disagreements has escalated into significant rifts.
In response to the criticism, White House spokeswoman Allison Schuster defended the administration, claiming that it has made “incredible strides” in advancing the MAHA agenda. Meanwhile, Kennedy’s team insists that he remains committed to reforming food and drug policies, despite external pressures from corporate interests.
As tensions rise within the MAHA movement, many supporters are contemplating their political affiliations moving forward. Some, like Kelly Ryerson, express a sense of betrayal, noting that the administration’s actions seem at odds with the promises made to them. The upcoming midterm elections may prove pivotal as MAHA advocates reassess their political strategies and the future of their movement.
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