Donald Trump, the President-elect, recently shared a meal with his nominee for Health and Human Services secretary, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., alongside notable figures including Elon Musk and House Speaker Mike Johnson.

The two enjoyed a meal from McDonald’s, a casual affair that contrasted with the significant political discussions that were likely at hand, and the meeting marked Kennedy's first public appearance with Trump in the wake of the election, as the Washington Examiner reports, with the fast-food dinner seemingly anathema to RFK's health advocacy.

The meal included other influential figures, showcasing a gathering of powerhouses in business and politics.

Musk, the CEO of Tesla, and Johnson, the current speaker of the House, joined in the casual meal. The group was seen engaging in light-hearted exchanges before their next scheduled public appearance.

Photo Captures Casual Dining on Airplane

A photograph of the meal was taken by Donald Trump Jr., which shows the group seated around a modest airplane table laden with McDonald's fare.

This image has circulated widely, sparking discussions on social media about the dietary choices of those vying to lead the nation’s health policies.

Don Jr.'s caption for the photo read, “Make America Healthy Again starts TOMORROW.” This quip has stirred both humor and critique from the public and media alike, as it juxtaposes the fast-food scene with a slogan promoting health.

Kennedy Jr., known for his straightforward opinions, did not hold back during the meal. He commented on the quality of food often consumed on campaign trails, critically highlighting the unhealthy options readily available.

Kennedy's Prior Criticism of Campaign Food

“The stuff that he eats is really, like, bad. Campaign food is always bad, but the food that goes onto that airplane is, like, just poison,” Kennedy expressed, discussing the typical fast food provided during campaigns. His statement shed light on the broader issue of food quality in campaign settings.

He elaborated that the choices are usually limited to items like KFC or Big Macs. Kennedy described these options as “when you’re lucky,” indicating that often, the alternatives are even less appealing.

The rest, he mentioned, is “kind of inedible,” showcasing his concern for nutritional standards amid political campaigns.

Trump and Kennedy Attend UFC 309

Following their meal, the group proceeded to Madison Square Garden to attend the UFC 309 fight. Their entrance was met with applause from the crowd, signifying a strong public interest in the political and celebrity figures present.

The presence of these leaders at such a public event, seated octagon side, was a significant moment, further emphasizing their high-profile status and the public’s interest in their activities outside the political arena.

This event was not only a leisure outing but also a strategic appearance during a time when both Trump and Kennedy were under intense public scrutiny following the recent election and nomination announcements.

McDonald’s Historical Shift to Healthier Options

The choice of McDonald’s as a meal option is notable, considering the fast-food giant’s history with health debates.

In 1990, McDonald’s made a significant shift by deciding to use all vegetable oils, moving away from beef tallow, which had been used for the first 60 years of their operation.

This change reflects ongoing efforts by fast food chains to improve the healthiness of their offerings, a pertinent point given Kennedy’s new role if confirmed as Health and Human Services secretary.

The discussion around these food choices, especially in such high-profile settings, underscores the ongoing debate about health and lifestyle in America, a topic that is sure to remain in the spotlight as Kennedy steps into his potential new role.