Trump Invokes Defense Production Act for Glyphosate and Phosphorus, Sparks Coalition Rift

President Donald Trump has signed an executive order invoking the Defense Production Act (DPA) to compel the domestic production of elemental phosphorus and glyphosate-based herbicides. The order specifically cited shortages of both substances as a significant risk to national security.

Glyphosate, the active chemical found in Bayer-Monsanto's Roundup, is the most commonly used herbicide across various U.S. crops. Elemental phosphorus also holds crucial importance, being utilized in the manufacturing of some military materials.

However, President Trump's executive order has created pronounced division within his "Make America Healthy Again" (MAHA) coalition. This coalition, which strongly supported Trump in the 2024 presidential election, has consistently expressed opposition to glyphosate due to allegations linking it to cancer.

Key Reactions and Context

Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr. defended the executive order, stating that it prioritizes America's defense readiness and food supply. This defense comes with notable context: Kennedy, a former environmental attorney, had previously won a nearly $290 million case against Monsanto on behalf of a man who claimed his cancer was caused by Roundup.

Kelly Ryerson, a prominent MAHA activist known as The Glyphosate Girl, expressed sharp criticism on X. She noted that the order expands domestic glyphosate production, which she described as the "carcinogenic pesticide that MAHA cares about most."

Ken Cook, president of the Environmental Working Group, stated that elevating glyphosate to a national security priority is the "exact opposite of what MAHA voters were promised."

Former Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) also criticized Trump, specifically for signing an order that she believes protects "cancer causing Glyphosate in our foods."

In contrast, House Agriculture Committee Republicans offered their thanks to President Trump. They acknowledged the importance of glyphosate-based herbicides in American agriculture, calling the executive order a vital step.

Broader Context and Agricultural Significance

The executive order was issued notably one day after Bayer proposed paying $7.25 billion to settle a series of lawsuits alleging that Roundup causes cancer.

Glyphosate is widely considered critical to American agriculture. It is extensively applied to key cash crops such as corn and soybeans and has received consistent support from various agricultural trade organizations. Furthermore, House Agriculture Chair Rep. G.T. Thompson (R-Pa.) is actively working to advance a farm bill that includes a provision designed to prevent state and local pesticide regulations from differing from federal guidance.