Arizona Sen. Mark Kelly has had a diverse career, including working as an astronaut, a Navy captain, and even selling vitamins in China. Recently, footage of Kelly promoting Shaklee vitamins in China resurfaced, leading to speculation that he may be chosen as the running mate for presumptive Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris. In the footage, Kelly rode onto the stage on a motorcycle with US and Chinese flags, promoting the benefits of Shaklee vitamins which he used while in orbit on the space shuttle.
Kelly was reportedly paid $50,000 for giving speeches on behalf of Shaklee in 2011, while his wife, former Rep. Gabrielle Giffords, was serving in the US House of Representatives. Despite criticism for promoting a multilevel marketing company like Shaklee, Kelly defended his decision, stating that NASA had used Shaklee products on space flights since the 1990s. His campaign spokesman also highlighted the effectiveness of the products, especially in maintaining blood volume in space.
During his campaign for the US Senate in 2020, Kelly promised to address high prescription drug costs and called out politicians who take money from drug companies. However, multilevel marketing companies like Shaklee have come under scrutiny for their business practices. A study found that 99% of participants in such companies lose money, and the Federal Trade Commission warns against get-rich-quick schemes, as most people end up making little to no money.
Despite the controversies surrounding his ties to Shaklee, Kelly remains a prominent figure in US politics, with high name recognition and favorability among Democrats. He is currently being considered as a potential running mate for Harris, along with other contenders like Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, and Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro. Kelly’s popularity among Democrats and his experience in various fields make him a strong candidate for the vice-presidential position.
It remains unclear whether Kelly continues to use Shaklee supplements, especially as he navigates the political landscape in Washington. While he has received criticism for his past involvement with the multilevel marketing company, Kelly’s spokesperson has defended his actions, citing the effectiveness of the products. As he competes for a spot on the Democratic ticket in 2024, Kelly’s past as a Chinese pill pusher may come under further scrutiny as he vies for a prominent role in national politics.
