Senate Republicans Launch ‘Make America Healthy Again’ Caucus Amid RFK Jr.’s Ongoing Capitol Hill Tour
The founders stated that the caucus aims to build collaborations with officials across local, state, and federal levels who are keen on the initiatives of MAHA.
While Robert F. Kennedy Jr. was actively engaging with lawmakers on Capitol Hill to garner support, a coalition of Republican senators introduced a new caucus aimed at championing the goals of President-elect Donald Trump and his nominee for the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).
The Congressional Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) caucus was established to cultivate partnerships with officials at the local, state, and federal levels who are interested in MAHA initiatives.
The caucus also seeks to undertake educational campaigns that enhance nutritional understanding and promote healthier living, tackle chronic disease issues, and improve access to affordable, nutritious foods.
The founding senators of this caucus include Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), Ron Johnson (R-Wis.), Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.), and Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.).
Marshall, a former physician with 25 years of medical practice, highlighted these initiatives in the press release.
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He mentioned that the caucus intends to endorse a “Food is Medicine” philosophy and “encourage transparency, innovation, and a transformative agenda that nurtures a healthier, more robust nation.”
After his initial run for the presidency as a Democrat and then as an independent candidate, Kennedy suspended his campaign in August, endorsed Trump, and initiated the “Make America Healthy Again” campaign.
The environmental attorney and founder of Children’s Health Defense was appointed by Trump as the HHS secretary last month, where he immediately pledged to implement substantial reforms within the department.
Several Republican senators have shown alignment with Kennedy on topics such as halting what he characterizes as corporate takeover of health agencies and eliminating harmful substances from the U.S. food supply.
The HHS supervises 13 agencies, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and the National Institutes of Health (NIH).
Addressing chronic disease, enhancing children’s health, and tackling corporate interference with governmental agencies were integral aspects of Kennedy’s presidential campaign agenda as a Democrat and later as an independent.
In January, Kennedy will testify at confirmation hearings with the Senate Finance Committee, responsible for HHS oversight and set to be chaired by Sen. Mike Crapo (R-Idaho).
Should Kennedy’s nomination receive approval from this committee, the full Senate will then vote on it.
The then-Republican presidential nominee and former U.S. President Donald Trump welcomes Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to the stage at a Turning Point Action campaign rally at the Gas South Arena in Duluth, Ga., on Oct. 23, 2024. Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images
As the new Senate convenes in January, Republicans will hold a total of 53 seats compared to the Democrats’ 47.
Just after the announcement of the MAHA caucus, Marshall indicated his intention to support Kennedy’s confirmation.
Since Monday, Kennedy has been actively visiting Capitol Hill, discussing his views with Republican senators.
He has consistently pointed out that meaningful change cannot occur until the sway of large corporate entities over the FDA, CDC, and Department of Agriculture is addressed.
His views on potential reforms within HHS agencies have received both accolades from Republican legislators and MAHA supporters, as well as backlash from Democrats and public health representatives.
Additionally, he has pledged to lead initiatives aimed at removing harmful substances from ultra-processed foods.
This year, Kennedy has repeatedly called for a review of the advertising regulations for pharmaceutical companies and urged Trump to prohibit pharmaceutical commercials on television. He also supports the idea of rescinding liability protections for drug manufacturers.
Concerning vaccinations, he has championed the importance of safety and informed consent.
“I’ve never been anti-vaccine. Individuals should have the freedom to choose, and that choice should be informed by accurate and comprehensive information,” he explained. “I will ensure that rigorous, science-based safety studies are conducted, enabling individuals to make informed decisions about the appropriateness of vaccines for their health.”
In this photo illustration, Froot Loops are on display in Miami, Fla., on Nov. 22, 2024. Robert F. Kennedy, the recently appointed health secretary for the United States, has expressed concerns regarding similar processed foods potentially posing health risks to consumers. Joe Raedle/Getty Images
She also stated that she does not have reservations about his stance on vaccines.
“He aims to ensure transparency regarding vaccine information so individuals can make informed decisions. He doesn’t intend to inhibit others from receiving vaccinations,” Lummis explained. “I feel very comfortable with his perspective on vaccines.”
During the December 19 announcement of the MAHA caucus, Lummis expressed that the group is dedicated to enhancing Americans’ health while also “holding accountable the federal agencies that have let down the American populace.”
Scott, who will chair the Senate Special Committee on Aging, expressed his support for Kennedy in the same announcement.
“From the moment we are born, the aging process commences—and I am committed to ensuring that every American has the necessary resources and knowledge to lead long, fulfilling lives,” Scott stated.
“If you possess good health, you possess everything. I look forward to collaborating with my fellow MAHA members and RFK Jr. to Make America Healthy Again.”
Kennedy is anticipated to engage with additional senators on December 20.
