Robert F. Kennedy Jr. sparked significant attention during his recent Senate confirmation hearing for Health and Human Services. Keen to promote his "Make America Healthy Again" (MAHA) campaign, Kennedy was seen appearing to covertly insert what many speculated was a nicotine pouch during his testimony.
On January 30, 2025, as Senator Maria Cantwell questioned him, video footage captured Kennedy cupping his mouth and quickly popping something between his gum and cheek. Eyewitness accounts suggested this might be Zyn, a popular brand of nicotine pouches, which has gained notoriety as "Gen Z's favourite drug." Social media users jumped on the moment, igniting debates over whether he was taking a nicotine fix or merely enjoying a mint.
“RFK Jr. slips in a Zyn in the middle of his Senate confirmation hearing ... give him the job,” quipped the country music site Whiskey Riff on X, formerly known as Twitter. This comment set off waves of reactions, with users chiming in on the seemingly clandestine act. One remarked, “Dude was thinking about...that subtle move for 30 min,” showcasing the blend of humor and skepticism surrounding Kennedy's actions.
The incident has thrust Kennedy, 71, under scrutiny not just for his health campaign message but also for his behavior during the hearing. Critics pointed out potential hypocrisy as he attempts to advocate for healthier lifestyles yet seemingly indulges in nicotine products. "Ok but he put down people who smoked cigarettes yesterday. I want him to get confirmed, but this wasn’t cool,” noted one social media supporter.
Despite the mixed audience reactions, studies indicate nicotine pouches such as Zyn are increasingly being marketed as safer alternatives to traditional smoking. According to Matthew Farrelly, Ph.D., director of the FDA’s Center for Tobacco Products, the agency has found sufficient evidence to authorize marketing these products, indicating they may benefit adults transitioning from cigarettes or smokeless tobacco.
American consumers have shown rising interest, with Zyn and similar products selling significant amounts globally—a fact not lost on Kennedy who was recently photographed with Zyn pouches. Yet concerns persist about the product’s allure to younger audiences due to strategic marketing and branding campaigns, which use social media to reach impressionable demographics.
Critics like Senator Chuck Schumer have issued stern warnings against these marketing tactics, claiming, "These nicotine pouches seem to lock their sites on young kids - teenagers and even lower…and then use social media to hook them.” Schumer's remarks underline the ethical dilemmas related to youth health and addiction, setting the stage for discussions about the responsibilities of public figures like Kennedy.
Kennedy’s political history also bears scrutiny, especially considering his focus on health issues and public accountability. While he has been vocal against various health practices he deems harmful, such as seed oils and junk food, this act of apparently slipping tobacco under his lip complicates the narrative. Critics argue if he truly believes what he promotes, why succumb to nicotine’s grip?
The broad use of nicotine pouches presents yet another layer of complexity. While they promise to reduce harm compared to smoking traditional cigarettes, experts also caution against potential gum damage and other health ramifications associated with excessive use. With over 385 million Zyn cases sold globally last year—an increase of 62% from 2022—this marketplace is rapidly growing, leading to greater discussions about regulation and health education.
Kennedy’s nomination raises questions not just about his ability to lead Health and Human Services but also his sincerity as he advocates for public health. This incident during his confirmation hearing could dim his chances as he might be perceived as out of touch or hypocritical, especially by those who may support his public health positions but disapprove of his actions.
What remains clear is this: Kennedy's Senate hearing, formerly intended to be about health initiatives, has morphed partly due to this viral moment, transitioning to dialogues about nicotine usage, health hypocrisy, and the responsibility of leaders to practice what they preach. The juxtaposition of his actions against his words will likely continue to resonate long after the session concluded.