Secretary Kennedy Highlights Health Initiatives in Wisconsin Tour
On June 2, 2026, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. visited Wisconsin as part of his 'Take Back Your Health' tour. Accompanied by Representative Derrick Van Orden, Kennedy highlighted efforts in dairy farming, infant formula safety, and addiction recovery. The visit underscored the Trump administration's commitment to improving public health through support for agriculture and nutrition.
The day began at Gilbertson Farm in Clear Creek, where Kennedy toured the dairy cattle and milk production facilities. A roundtable discussion followed, featuring Rep. Van Orden, SAMHSA's Chris Carroll, HHS Director Monty Burks, farm owner Kevin Gilbertson, along with other industry leaders and faith-based organizations. Kennedy emphasized the importance of dairy products in the Dietary Guidelines for Americans and acknowledged President Trump's support for American farmers.
In Eau Claire, Kennedy and Van Orden toured Perrigo's infant formula facility. They highlighted the FDA's largest-ever targeted testing of infant formula, part of Operation Stork Speed, which aims to ensure the safety and reliability of infant nutrition. Perrigo CEO Patrick Lockwood-Taylor expressed appreciation for the visit, emphasizing the company's role in providing affordable, quality nutrition for infants.
The tour also focused on addiction recovery efforts, highlighting the Trump administration's Great American Recovery Initiative. This initiative includes a $100 million investment to address homelessness, opioid addiction, and to improve public safety through expanded treatment programs. Secretary Kennedy noted the historic actions taken to open grant opportunities for faith-based organizations dedicated to addiction treatment.
Secretary Kennedy encouraged faith-based organizations to join the HHS webinar on June 3 to learn best practices for applying for SAMHSA grants. This webinar aims to equip organizations with knowledge to effectively access federal funding for addiction recovery programs.
Overall, Kennedy's visit to Wisconsin highlighted the vital contributions of local communities in advancing national health goals. From dairy farming to nutrition and recovery programs, the tour reinforced the administration's policy to 'Make America Healthy Again.'
