'Glyphosate and Cancer?' Ex-Environmentalist RFK Jr Supports Trump's Boost of Pesticides He Fought for Years

Robert F. Kennedy Jr., once a fierce opponent of pesticides like glyphosate, now publicly supports efforts to boost their production.

Not long ago, he was celebrated as an environmental hero. His landmark case against Monsanto, which accused the giant of hiding the cancer risks of Roundup, made headlines. He famously argued that glyphosate contributed to his client's cancer, cementing his reputation as a defender of public health.

Yet, Kennedy's stance has shifted.

As the US top health official under President Donald Trump, he now endorses measures aimed at increasing glyphosate production.

His social media post on Sunday evening acknowledged the chemical's toxicity but framed the administration's move as a necessary step for America's agricultural security.

'President Trump did not build our current system, he inherited it,' Kennedy wrote. 'I support President Trump's Executive Order to bring agricultural chemical production back to the United States and end our near-total reliance on adversarial nations.'

MAHA loyalty to Trump

Kennedy's endorsement signals loyalty to Trump, who has supported his efforts to overhaul vaccine policies and challenge mainstream health narratives. But it also puts him at odds with many in his original movement.

Toxicologist Dr. Alexandra Muñoz voiced her frustration.

'The supply chain can be secured without handing a get-out-of-jail free card to Bayer/Monsanto. This blatantly disregards how the EO is setting up Bayer for immunity - so they can knowingly give more Americans cancer,' she replied on the post. 'As a toxicologist, I validate that Glyphosate-based herbicides cause CANCER. Immunity means more Americans will get cancer and will have no recourse... that's not national security.'

Critics argue this pivot is part of a broader pattern.

Pesticide manufacturers and their defenders claim their products undergo rigorous review. Some propose legislation that would make it harder for consumers to sue companies over chemical dangers. The Justice Department backed Bayer in a Supreme Court case that could limit future liability for glyphosate-based herbicides.

Kennedy's promises and environmental concerns

Kennedy insists on working with agencies like the EPA and USDA to promote safer agricultural practices. The government recently launched a $700 million programme to encourage soil health, water quality, and sustainable farming methods.

Kennedy continues to believe glyphosate causes cancer. His stance echoes some scientific studies, though regulators like the EPA maintain the chemical's safety when used correctly. Bayer, which owns Monsanto, defends glyphosate's safety, stating it 'has been tested extensively, approved by regulators and used around the globe for more than 50 years.'

Kennedy's social media post also highlighted efforts to reduce chemical reliance.

'I am working with the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the EPA to expedite a future in which the food supply is not reliant on harmful chemicals,' he wrote.

'Aggressive effort to try and hang onto MAHA principles'

Despite these promises, some environmental advocates remain unconvinced. Ken Cook, head of the Environmental Working Group, questions whether meaningful change is happening.

'If there is a big plan, a big MAHA-style plan to move in the direction of detoxifying agriculture from these chemicals, where is it?' he asked. 'What I'm seeing here is a very aggressive effort to try and hang onto MAHA principles even as, at every turn, you betray them.'

Cook suggests Kennedy may have compromised his original stance, aligning more with industry interests than environmental health. 'He's jumped onto their message square and is dancing on it,' he added.

The EPA has promised a broader agenda addressing chemicals, plastics, lead pipes, and food safety. Officials say this will be unveiled soon and will reinforce science and transparency in pesticide regulation.

Kennedy's coalition, a diverse mix of anti-vaccine advocates, environmentalists, and health-conscious citizens, plays a pivotal role in Republican efforts to maintain Congress. Yet, the alliance faces strains. Many supporters feel betrayed, especially as political realities shift.

As the midterm campaigns heat up, Kennedy's new stance underscores the complex, often conflicting nature of health, environmental advocacy, and politics. His shift from pesticide fighter to supporter illustrates how political realities can reshape even the most deeply held convictions.