Leaders of the 'Make America Healthy Again' (Maha) movement have launched a petition calling for Donald Trump to fire Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) administrator Lee Zeldin, accusing him of prioritising chemical companies over public health. The petition marks the latest clash in a growing feud between Maha and Maga factions over toxic chemical regulations.
The petition, supported by about a dozen Maha influencers including Zen Honeycutt, Kelly Ryerson, and Vani Hari, alleges that Zeldin has rolled back rules on toxic chemicals and fast-tracked pesticide approvals since his appointment in late January. It states that Zeldin's actions 'prioritised the interests of chemical corporations over the wellbeing of American families and children'.
Ryerson told the Guardian she hopes the president is unaware of the situation and would be sympathetic if he knew the 'real story'. The Maha leaders pointed to several EPA actions, including proposed rules reducing scrutiny of new chemicals, appointment of four chemical industry executives to top positions, continued permitting of the banned pesticide dicamba, and approval of more PFAS 'forever chemicals' in pesticides.
The EPA defended Zeldin, stating he has been working closely with Trump and Kennedy to implement Maha policies. A spokesperson attributed criticism to 'misinformation' and said the agency's long-term success depends on 'rigorous, transparent science'. However, the petition argues Zeldin's approach will lead to higher chronic disease rates and healthcare costs.
