RFK Jr. fought pesticides for years. Now he’s backing their production - AP News
AP News
February 23, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a long-time advocate against environmental harms, has made a surprising shift in his stance on pesticides. Known for his efforts to reduce their use and impact, Kennedy now supports increased production of certain pesticides under stricter regulations. This move has sparked controversy among environmentalists and supporters of his past work.
Kennedy’s change comes after years of battling the negative effects of pesticides through legal actions and advocacy. He co-founded the RFK Foundation, which focuses on protecting children from toxic exposure, including pesticides. However, his new stance argues that modern agricultural practices require controlled pesticide use to ensure food safety and public health. He emphasizes the importance of regulatory oversight to minimize harm while supporting necessary farming needs.
Critics argue that this shift contradicts Kennedy’s historical opposition to industrial agriculture and pesticide misuse. They question whether industry ties or changing priorities have influenced his position. Despite the backlash, Kennedy maintains that his focus remains on protecting human health, advocating for safer pesticides and stronger regulations rather than outright banning them.
This development highlights a broader debate over balancing environmental protection with food production demands. As global food needs grow, the role of pesticides in modern agriculture is under increasing scrutiny. Kennedy’s stance underscores the complexity of addressing public health, environmental sustainability, and agricultural productivity—an issue that continues to divide stakeholders across various industries and interests.
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Originally published on AP News on 2/23/2026