Jillian Michaels Accuses New York Times of ‘Smear Campaign’ Over MAHA movement Coverage
NEW YORK – Fitness guru Jillian Michaels has publicly criticized The New York Times, accusing the outlet of launching a “smear campaign” against her and the growing Movement for Health Advancement (MAHA) following the release of a recent video highlighting figures associated with the group. Michaels, a vocal supporter of Health and Human Services Secretary and MAHA leader Robert F. Kennedy jr.’s policies, alleges the Times misrepresented her views and questioned the motivation behind the critical coverage.
The controversy stems from a New York Times opinion video examining the MAHA movement, wich has drawn scrutiny for its embrace of alternative health perspectives and skepticism towards conventional medicine. Michaels claims the video selectively presented her statements, and that the Times could have easily clarified her position by referencing a profile they published on her in August. The fitness personality further questioned why the outlet would seek too “trash” those advocating for a greater focus on preventative healthcare and addressing America’s chronic disease crisis.”If they were confused, they could’ve read the piece they themselves just ran on me,” Michaels stated Tuesday. ”So why the sudden smear campaign? Desperate to cover what? Why would anyone be so intent on trashing those of us asking why America can’t take its chronic disease crisis seriously and put more focus on prevention?”
A spokesperson for The new York times defended the video as “thorough” and based on “reporting and fact-checking,” stating it presented clips of various individuals, including Michaels, “using their own words for any viewer to plainly see.” The spokesperson emphasized the importance of independent journalism in helping audiences understand complex issues.
The MAHA movement, spearheaded by Kennedy Jr., has gained traction by advocating for reforms in public health policy, including increased funding for preventative care and a reevaluation of vaccine safety.The group’s views have sparked debate, with critics raising concerns about the spread of misinformation and the potential for undermining established medical consensus. michaels’ public support for Kennedy Jr. and the movement has made her a target of criticism from those who oppose their positions.
