Sen. John Kennedy posted a playful one-minute video introducing "Margaret," his elliptical trainer named for Margaret Thatcher, while wearing a red bandanna in his Louisiana carport. He said the machine stays outside because it’s heavy, his wife won’t allow it indoors, and he likes to work out in the summer. The clip quickly went viral as viewers roasted his look but also praised his folksy, everyman style. Kennedy closed the clip with the line, "My work here is done," which added to the online buzz.
Sen. John Kennedy Goes Viral Introducing 'Margaret,' His Elliptical Named for Margaret Thatcher
Sen. John Kennedy, R-La., talks to reporters in the basement of the U.S. Capitol on July 31, 2025, as Senate lawmakers work to finish legislative business before the August recess.(Getty Images)
Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.) attracted widespread attention after posting a tongue-in-cheek one-minute workout video in which he introduces viewers to "Margaret," his elliptical trainer named after former U.K. Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher. The clip, filmed in Kennedy’s Louisiana carport, blends self-deprecating humor, a red bandanna, and a folksy delivery that quickly caught on online.
Kennedy opens the video with a direct address to his followers: "Hey X, I have somebody I’d like you to meet." He then gestures to the machine and says, "This is Margaret. Margaret is my elliptical trainer. I named Margaret after Margaret Thatcher because both kick butt and take names."
The senator explains why the elliptical stays under the carport: it’s too heavy to move, his wife "won’t let" him bring it inside, and he likes to squeeze in workouts during Louisiana summers. Viewers were quick to point out the irony of exercising outdoors in the state’s notorious heat and humidity.
Sen. John Kennedy speaks before the Senate Judiciary Committee on Capitol Hill in Washington on March 21, 2022.
"As you can see, Margaret, my elliptical trainer, is out here under my carport in Louisiana. After Margaret kicks my butt, I look for air conditioning."
The short, self-aware clip quickly generated thousands of reactions. Many viewers roasted Kennedy’s bandanna and joked about his look, while others praised the senator’s everyman persona and plainspoken humor. Comments ranged from playful mockery to admiration for his relatable, down-home style.
Kennedy, who has cultivated a folksy public image built on colorful one-liners and unconventional social-media moments, closed the clip with a parting line that added to the viral buzz: "My work here is done. And I can see myself out."
Public Reaction
The video highlights how brief, humorous posts can humanize public figures and spark widespread online engagement. Reactions blended satire, affection, and incredulity—evidence of the clip’s broad reach beyond partisan lines.
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