RFK Jr. Criticized for Wearing Jeans to Gym Workout in Austin

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Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. was filmed working out in jeans and boots at an Austin-area gym, drawing criticism from social media users who questioned his exercise form and priorities as a health official.

Why it matters

Kennedy has made promoting physical health and nutrition a key part of his 'Make America Healthy Again' agenda, so his choice of workout attire and technique have become a point of scrutiny, with some questioning whether he is practicing what he preaches.

The details

In a video Kennedy posted on X, he is seen wearing jeans and boots while lifting weights on a leg press machine. Social media users criticized his form, with one commenting 'Ego lifting, not one full rep lower the weight and do a proper full rep.' Others pointed out the inappropriateness of wearing jeans to the gym, with one writing 'If you really did leg day, you wouldn't be wearing jeans.' Some users felt Kennedy should focus more on his policy agenda than social media workout videos.

• On Friday, Kennedy posted the workout video on his X account.
• The day before, Kennedy stopped at a barbecue restaurant in Austin to 'EAT REAL FOOD', part of his push for healthier eating.

What’s next

The American-Statesman has reached out to the Health and Human Services Department for comment on Kennedy's workout video and attire, but had not received a response by the time of publication.