Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has hinted at possibly taking on a key role in shaping American agriculture policy should Donald Trump become president again. This statement marks another instance showcasing the various positions Kennedy has visualized for himself in a potential second Trump administration.
Kennedy, an environmentalist and controversial figure known for his anti-vaccine stance, shared a video on social media filmed outside the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) in Washington. In it, he criticized corporate sway over dietary guidelines set by the USDA, claiming this has led to 70% of the American diet being comprised of ultra-processed foods. He stated, “We’re going to change that,” expressing determination to reverse these trends and highlight several policy suggestions that could conflict with the actions of Trump’s previous agriculture department.
“The state of American agriculture as it stands is unacceptable, but once I step inside the USDA, the tide will turn. We will rejuvenate American agriculture and restore national health,” Kennedy declared during his addresses.
In response to inquiries about potential appointments in a future Trump administration, the Trump campaign remarked that it was too early for such discussions. Nevertheless, Trump has publicly acknowledged Kennedy’s potential contributions during his recent rallies, suggesting he could play an essential role in improving national health standards.
At a rally in Reading, Pennsylvania, Trump remarked, “We will make America healthy again, and RFK Jr. is the one who’s going to assist with that. He has some promising ideas.” However, the idea of Kennedy wielding significant influence over various federal policies has caused concern among public health advocates, who cite his role in disseminating misinformation about vaccines and raising unwarranted fears surrounding technology, including 5G. Despite the infrequent severe vaccine reactions, numerous studies and global vaccination efforts affirm their safety, with the World Health Organization attributing up to 5 million preventive deaths each year to vaccines.
Trump is currently in a competitive race against Democrat Kamala Harris, and he welcomed Kennedy’s endorsement after Kennedy withdrew his independent candidacy in August. Kennedy had cultivated a diverse following among anti-establishment voters and skeptics of vaccine mandates stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic.
While polling data has not indicated that Kennedy is dramatically shifting support from either major-party candidate, some research suggests that his presence in the race may detract more support from Trump than from Harris. A survey conducted in July discovered that around half of Republican respondents held a favorable opinion of Kennedy, compared to approximately 30% of Democrats and a similar number of independents.
Upon endorsing Trump, Kennedy mentioned that discussions had occurred regarding a potential position within the administration, although specifics were not disclosed. His campaign previously alluded to conversations about a Cabinet role at the Department of Health and Human Services, responsible for supervising several key health and safety agencies.
This month, Kennedy has released a series of videos outlining his goal to assert influence over various policy areas if the Trump campaign prevails.
The USDA’s responsibilities encompass support for farmers, animal and plant health, and food safety, including nutrition programs aimed at low-income individuals, pregnant women, and children. However, Kennedy’s skepticism toward conventional agriculture practices, including widespread herbicide use and large-scale farming operations, might not resonate positively with many agricultural stakeholders. Critics such as John Hansen, president of the Nebraska Farmers Union, commented, “If I were Trump, I’d try to limit Kennedy’s visibility quickly. Do you really think he would sit well with rural voters?”
Many policies adopted during Sonny Perdue’s tenure as agriculture secretary favored large farm operations, which Kennedy has been vocal against. On October 1, Kennedy posted a video in front of the Environmental Protection Agency, announcing his intention to address health and environmental issues. Shortly after, he revealed plans to collaborate with Trump to revitalize the nation’s food and public health systems.
Kennedy emphasized the necessity to reform health agencies like the CDC, NIH, FDA, and the USDA, alleging they operate primarily to benefit the industries meant to be regulated. Recently, he targeted the FDA in a video filmed outside the U.S. Capitol, stating, “I want to influence the FDA to improve America’s health,” concluding his remarks by calling for Trump’s election victory, hinting at the possibility of his involvement with the FDA should that occur.
In response to queries about potential roles in a Trump administration, a senior Trump advisor noted it was premature to designate any specific appointments, but mentioned a leadership transition team was being established to prepare for potential outcomes following the election.
Mike Haag, a farmer from Emington, Illinois, voiced skepticism about Kennedy’s fit for the agriculture sector but opted to reserve judgment until official announcements are made. Haag stated, “While I doubt it would be beneficial, I’m not too worried about it since there’s no official word yet.”
Additionally, Kennedy’s nonprofit group, Children’s Health Defense, has lodged a lawsuit against numerous news organizations, including claims related to their attempts to tackle misinformation about vaccines in the context of COVID-19. While Kennedy stepped back from the organization to pursue his presidential campaign, he remains associated with it in legal capacities.