RFK Jr talks Kennedy history on first trip as HHS chief, inspires gov to order ‘Mountaineer Mile’ for ‘MAHA’
Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. made his first trip to Martinsburg, West Virginia, to promote the “MAHA” agenda. He emphasized the unique history his iconic political family has in the Mountain State. Kennedy highlighted the significance of former New York Democratic Gov. Al Smith, who challenged anti-Catholic biases during his presidential campaign in 1928. Despite facing political strife and a resurgence of the Ku Klux Klan in the South, Smith’s legacy paved the way for John F. Kennedy’s successful presidential bid in 1960.
Kennedy reminisced about his uncle’s campaign in West Virginia, where he needed to win to demonstrate that a Catholic could become president. John F. Kennedy’s victory in the state, despite its low Catholic population at the time, was crucial for his path to the White House. Kennedy stressed the importance of connecting with the people of West Virginia and understanding their issues, a sentiment that carried through his presidency.
Before his tenure as HHS secretary, Kennedy’s anti-pollution efforts often brought him to West Virginia’s coal country. Now, in his new role, he aims to combat a different type of pollution and improve public health outcomes. At a recent event with Governor Patrick Morrisey, they introduced a groundbreaking policy to ban certain additives in school lunches, with a statewide sunset in 2028. Morrisey also signed a request for a waiver to restrict SNAP benefits from being used to purchase soda and implement work requirements for eligibility.
Morrisey emphasized the importance of promoting healthier lifestyles in West Virginia, a state with high obesity rates. The “Mountaineer Mile” initiative encourages residents to walk at least one mile every day, promoting physical activity and overall well-being. Morrisey and Kennedy aspire to transform West Virginia’s health landscape and elevate the state’s standing in national health rankings.
The MAHA movement officially kicked off in West Virginia, marking the state’s commitment to prioritizing public health and wellness. Morrisey’s dedication to improving the health of West Virginians is evident in his personal commitment to the Mountaineer Mile initiative, showcasing leadership by example. Through collaborative efforts and innovative policies, West Virginia is poised to lead the nation in health and wellness initiatives.
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