Eyes Wide Shut

Democrats' Blindness To MAHA

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Since Trump came down the escalator in 2015 and gave his initial press conference, Democrats’ shock to their sensibilities and anger at the man have rendered them blind to the popularity of several issues Trump champions. The list is long, but today I write about Make America Healthy Again (MAHA).

Last Fall on The Morning Meeting, we heard repeatedly from moms, and some dads, across the ideological spectrum, concerned about the impact of ultra-processed foods commonly consumed by children-and adults. Specifically, they point to data that shows a rapid increase in pediatric and adult digestive issues, diabetes, and heart disease, particularly compared to Europe. Of course, in Europe, many of the chemicals and ingredients in ultra-processed foods are banned.

The first politician to give voice to these concerns was Robert F Kennedy in his campaign for the Democratic nomination in 2023. RFK built a powerful, loyal legion of followers, who organically organized to share stories and advocate for change. Many of these people are suburban moms, already active in common neighborhood group chats. They are not MAGA, nor suffering from Trump Derangement Syndrome (TDS). They are all over the country, from swing states, to the deepest of blue and red corners. They are middle of the road, regular Americans, concerned about the health and safety of their children, and themselves. They are material in numbers and powerful from intensity.

Obsessed with defeating Trump, Democrats devoted all of their attention to destroying RFK and ensuring there was not a competitive primary against the incumbent. Once it became obvious he had no chance, RFK left the Democratic Party and went into the political wilderness, with his loyal followers focused as ever on addressing food quality.

As I have said many times, Trump is an incredible political athlete and extremely street smart. Sensing an opportunity, Trump extended a hand to RFK and, just as importantly, to his followers. Ever the marketing genius, Trump recognized the power of MAHA and fully embraced its agenda - ironic, given his favorite restaurant is said to be McDonalds.

On Tuesday, RFK announced “an understanding” with food manufacturers to remove petroleum-based food colorings from their products by 2026. He also announced a focus on combating the amount of sugar children eat, much of which is often processed.

As someone focused on health after watching my father suffer - and thankfully survive - a massive heart attack when I was 12, I find it sad that my Party cannot support MAHA, largely because they refuse to give Trump help. And as a Democrat who hopes to win future elections, it frustrates me to no end that we are not engaged on the issue in general. It’s time for Democrats to open their eyes. It’s time for Democrats to start building a pro-active agenda that is both good policy and good politics. There are worse places to start than MAHA.