Parents in the Middle: A Big Chance for Politics

A new study shows that almost four out of ten parents say they care about a movement called Make America Healthy Again, or MAHA. That means many people are looking at children’s health as a big issue. The group is not only made up of Republicans. About 62 % of Republican parents say they support MAHA, while only 17 % of Democratic parents and 34 % of independents do. Even though the label is often used in politics, most parents share worries about kids’ diets, mental health and social media. Parents also think that children’s physical and mental well‑being are getting worse. Seventy‑nine percent of parents in a Michigan study said that children’s health is deteriorating, and eighty‑three percent say their mental health is declining. The government has taken a few steps. A new report from the Department of Health and Human Services listed some wins: food companies have agreed to limit artificial dyes, a new food pyramid was released, and schools are offering 2 % milk again.But the administration’s actions also hurt some of those who care about health. For example, a recent order will increase production of the pesticide glyphosate. Earlier this year, research had linked it to health problems like cancers and liver inflammation. Doctors disagree with many of the ideas in MAHA, especially about vaccines. Most parents trust doctors and know that not getting vaccinated can lead to outbreaks of measles. The Trump administration has also rolled back air‑quality rules, while many MAHA parents want more food and environmental safety. Because of these contradictions, the movement may lose supporters. In upcoming elections, many voters who care about children’s health are leaning toward the Democratic Party. Republican states have made progress in protecting parents from social media by setting age limits and giving parents more control. The leader of the Department of Health and Human Services has helped bring this group into the Republican fold. The question now is how much Republicans will keep these parents engaged. If a party wants to win elections, it must listen to the concerns of this large group. The fate of MAHA depends on how seriously leaders take the health issues that parents care about.