MAHA-MAGA tensions grow ahead of midterm elections

Published March 29, 2026 6:00am ET



The Make America Healthy Again momentum that has shaped President Donald Trump’s health policy in his second term seems to be losing steam following a series of blows to the movement’s key public health objectives. 

Trump promised now-Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. on the 2024 campaign trail that he could “go wild” on health. Slightly more than a year in, however, fault lines are showing between MAHA activists and the broader Make America Great Again coalition within the GOP. 

Trusted reporting.Unlimited access.

Subscribe for full access to Washington Examiner coverage, expert political analysis, and subscriber-only journalism.

Get Unlimited Access

Already a member? Log in

Cancel anytime.