MAHA vs. MAGA: Republican rift exposed after midterm losses

A new Republican rift has emerged after the 2026 midterm losses, with former HHS adviser Calley Means accusing ex-chief of staff Susie Wiles of catering to lobbyists on vapes and pesticides. Means made the claims on The Joe Rogan Experience, and Wiles denies them. Means alleged Wiles pressed for fruit-flavored vape approvals and blocked health initiatives, citing tobacco interests linked to Ballard Partners. He provided no documentary evidence, and Wiles, James Blair, and Brian Ballard all denied his account. Means resigned in October, citing administration infiltration. The dispute highlights tension between the MAHA movement and Trump's broader agenda, including FDA vape approvals and a glyphosate executive order. White House spokesperson Allison Schuster defended Trump's MAHA record, while Republicans debate the administration's direction following the midterm defeat.