Healey Challenges RFK Jr.'s Dunkin', Starbucks Ingredient Concerns

Governor says 'Come and Take It' in response to Kennedy's potential ingredient restrictions

Published on Mar. 6, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey is pushing back against Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s comments about potentially restricting certain ingredients found in Dunkin' and Starbucks products. Healey posted an image on X with the message 'Come And Take It', challenging Kennedy to try to take away her Dunkin' coffee. Kennedy responded, assuring Healey and residents that Dunkin' is not going anywhere, but questioning whether sugary drinks are safe.

Why it matters

This political clash highlights the ongoing debate around food and beverage regulations, with Kennedy taking a more cautious stance on ingredient safety while Healey defends consumer choice and the popularity of brands like Dunkin'. It also speaks to the broader tensions between state and federal authority on public health issues.

The details

In response to Kennedy's comments about potentially pulling certain ingredients from the market if they can't be proven safe, Healey posted a defiant message on X telling him to 'come and take' her Dunkin' coffees. Healey criticized Kennedy, saying he should focus on ending measles rather than going after Dunkin'. Kennedy later responded on X, assuring Healey and Massachusetts residents that Dunkin' is not going anywhere, but questioning whether sugary drinks loaded with 180 grams of sugar are truly safe.

  • On March 5, 2026, Governor Healey posted her 'Come And Take It' message on X.
  • On March 6, 2026, Secretary Kennedy responded to Healey's post on X.

The players

Maura Healey

The current Governor of Massachusetts, known for her outspoken defense of consumer choice and local businesses.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr.

The current U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services, who has taken a more cautious stance on the safety of certain food and beverage ingredients.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Come And Take It”

— Maura Healey, Governor of Massachusetts (X)

“No one is taking away your Dunkin'. But isn't it reasonable to ask whether a drink loaded with 180 grams of sugar is safe?”

— Robert F. Kennedy Jr., U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services (X)

What’s next

It remains to be seen whether Secretary Kennedy will follow through on his concerns about certain beverage ingredients and what actions, if any, he may take. This political clash is likely to continue as both sides defend their positions on consumer choice, public health, and the role of government regulation.

The takeaway

This dispute highlights the ongoing tensions between state and federal authority on public health issues, as well as the broader debate around food and beverage regulations. It demonstrates how political leaders can clash over the balance between consumer choice, industry interests, and public safety concerns.