Story perspectives

Kennedy Defends Glyphosate Order Amid MAHA Backlash

2/24/2026

Summary

Story summary

Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. defended his support for President Trump's glyphosate production order, saying pesticides are "toxic by design" yet essential for the food supply.
He also stressed the need to reduce reliance on foreign nations for food security.
The remarks followed backlash from his MAHA movement, particularly MAHA Moms, who feel betrayed.
Kennedy's reforming-the-food-system stance suggests a complex path ahead that may challenge established interests.

History

Historical Context

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency registered glyphosate as a herbicide in 1974, influenced by companies like Monsanto, which claimed it could boost crop yields by 20%. Today, Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s endorsement of glyphosate highlights ongoing debates about pesticide safety and food security, reflecting historical tensions between agricultural productivity and environmental health concerns that continue to shape U.S. food policy.

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Story summary

Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. defended his support for President Trump's glyphosate production order, saying pesticides are "toxic by design" yet essential for the food supply.
He also stressed the need to reduce reliance on foreign nations for food security.
The remarks followed backlash from his MAHA movement, particularly MAHA Moms, who feel betrayed.
Kennedy's reforming-the-food-system stance suggests a complex path ahead that may challenge established interests.

1 / 2