Manatee Review

Congressman Vern Buchanan, serving as Vice Chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee and Chairman of the Health Subcommittee, has announced his role as a founding member of the Make America Health Again (MAHA) Caucus in the U.S. House of Representatives. The caucus, co-founded with Representatives John Joyce and Lloyd Smucker, aims to promote long, healthy lives for Americans by improving access to affordable, high-quality foods and primary care. Senator Roger Marshall will lead the caucus in the Senate.

The MAHA Caucus intends to collaborate closely with the incoming Trump Administration to foster a healthier nation.

"The chronic disease epidemic accounts for the vast majority of healthcare costs, disabilities and deaths in the United States," stated Buchanan. "I look forward to partnering with Dr. Joyce, Rep. Smucker, Sen. Marshall and Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to promote healthy lifestyles and further research into the prevention and treatment of chronic diseases. It’s time to Make America Health Again."

Representative Joyce emphasized his medical background in advocating for healthy living: "As a doctor, I recognize that healthy foods and physical activity play an important role in every American life. I look forward to working with Congressman Smucker, Senator Marshall, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., and my colleagues in the House in order to advance our shared goal to make America the healthiest country in the world."

Rep. Smucker highlighted his experience from Pennsylvania's agricultural communities: "I’ve spent my whole life in the Garden Spot of America... Through our abundant, locally grown, healthy fresh food I have seen impact that diet can have on an individual’s health... There is a real need to address these public health emergencies... I look forward to working with my friend and colleague Rep. John Joyce... members of MAHA Caucus... like Robert F. Kennedy Jr."

Additional members joining this initiative include Reps. Brian Babin, Troy Balderson, Stephanie Bice, Diana Harshbarger, Nick Langworthy, Laurel Lee, David Rouzer, Pete Stauber and William Timmons.

Buchanan has consistently advocated for policy-driven solutions against chronic diseases' rising tide; notably chairing a hearing on preventive medicine's importance last September.

Besides his roles within Congress related committees overseeing Medicare programs Buchanan remains active pushing for broader health-focused legislative agendas.