Democrats eye the MAHA playbook ahead of midterms and 2028

Some Democrats are actively courting the "Make America Healthy Again" base, arguing they're better positioned to deliver on food safety, pesticide regulation, and environmental health than the Trump administration has been. With key MAHA figures — including adviser Calley Means — publicly expressing frustration over stalled progress, Democrats see an opportunity heading into the midterms and the 2028 presidential race.

The Center for American Progress recently released a policy proposal focused on healthier foods and reducing harmful chemicals, backed by polling showing Democrats could credibly claim the MAHA agenda. Lawmakers like Sen. Cory Booker and Michigan Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed have already introduced legislation echoing MAHA themes, while House Democrats' health working group explicitly included a section titled "Reclaiming MAHA."

By the Numbers:

• 37% of Trump voters say they're open to voting Democratic on a MAHA-aligned platform
• 80% of Americans support labeling ultra-processed foods
• 79% support removing ultra-processed foods from school lunches
• 76% support removing artificial dyes from food
• Only ~25% of respondents identify as MAHA supporters — yet far more back its food policies

Why it matters: Food safety and pesticide reform have broad, bipartisan appeal that transcends traditional political identity. If Democrats successfully claim this agenda, it could reshape coalition-building ahead of 2028 — and potentially drive meaningful policy change on chronic disease and food quality regardless of who wins.