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Bonnie Johnson
August 06, 2026
Media ArticleVermont cattle and sheep farmer John Klar has become a leading supporter of the “Make America Healthy Again” (MAHA) movement, advocating for reduced pesticide use and fewer chemicals in the food system. He has gained increased national attention since Robert F. Kennedy Jr. became U.S. secretary of health and human services.
In July, Klar was appointed to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Farm, Ranch, and Rural Communities Federal Advisory Committee. He was one of 21 new members selected to advise the agency on policies affecting farmers, ranchers, and rural communities.
The EPA said Klar was chosen for both his agricultural experience and his involvement in the MAHA movement. The appointment places him in a position to provide input on federal policies related to agriculture and rural communities.
Klar has previously met with EPA officials to discuss concerns about pesticide safety and chemical use in agriculture. His advocacy has focused on promoting cleaner food production and supporting farming practices that reduce reliance on synthetic chemicals.
Although he supports many MAHA objectives, Klar has criticized some Trump administration actions, including support for glyphosate-related policies. However, he views his appointment as a positive sign that government officials are willing to hear perspectives from smaller and organic farmers.
A former Republican candidate for Vermont governor and state Senate, Klar now identifies closely with the MAHA movement. He argues that its goals extend beyond vaccine-related debates and include improving food quality, soil health, and agricultural sustainability.
Klar has also emphasized that healthier food systems can unite people across political divides. He believes concerns about food quality and farming practices have broad appeal regardless of political affiliation.
Photo Credit: vnews.com
