The Future Is MAHA

The Intellectual Godparents

The MAHA movement traces its roots to various sources, including the hippieish natural-food movement, the growing community of people with debilitating illnesses dismissed by doctors, the anti-vaxx campaign led by celebrities, and the profound unhealthiness afflicting the nation. COVID-19 helped coalesce these strains into something like a worldview.

Mapping the MAHA-verse

MAHA stands for "Make America Healthy Again," a campaign slogan that has undergone a resurgence. The MAHA movement draws influence from a range of experts, including naturopaths, organic farmers, and wellness advocates. Nominating vaccine skeptic Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to lead the nation's health bureaucracy is seen as a significant move by the movement.

What Are They Afraid Of?

MAHA's suspicion of vaccines and other substances stems from fears of contamination. The movement advocates for a connection to the earth and its bounty, promoting practices like raw-milk consumption and skepticism of microplastics.

The Wellness-to-MAHA Pipeline

MAHA has gained cross-partisan influence, with lawmakers expressing concerns about diet quality and chronic disease. The movement spans the political spectrum, with some even seeing parallels with the Unabomber's critique of industrial society.

The Siblings With RFK Jr.'s Ear

Calley and Casey Means, known for their work on chronic disease, have a connection with RFK Jr. Their support for his vision may indicate a broader alignment between MAHA and the Trump movement.

What Can Secretary Kennedy Actually Do in Office?

Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s potential influence is uncertain due to the complex structure of the Department of Health and Human Services. However, some believe his appointment could lead to policy changes on issues such as fluoride and vaccination.