Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Announces Independent Presidential Run, Shaking Up the 2024 Race

In a surprising turn of events, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a prominent environmental lawyer and anti-vaccine activist, has officially declared his candidacy for the 2024 presidential election as an independent. This announcement marks the end of his relatively unsuccessful bid in the Democratic primary. Kennedy’s entry into the race introduces a new dynamic, potentially challenging the expected rematch between President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr Departure from Democratic Primary

Robert F. Kennedy Jr, a scion of the renowned Kennedy family in American politics, was running a challenging primary campaign with limited support from the Democratic establishment. Interestingly, Kennedy’s favorability ratings were notably higher among Republicans than Democrats, creating uncertainty about the impact of his candidacy in the general election. Both Biden and Trump supporters have voiced concerns that Kennedy might act as a spoiler in the race.

Independent Stance Gains Supporters

Robert F. Kennedy Jr made his announcement at Philadelphia’s Independence Mall, where hundreds of supporters gathered to hear him speak. Many of his supporters identify as neither Democrats nor Republicans and see Kennedy as a refreshing truth-teller, distinct from typical politicians.

Julia Hill, a 23-year-old student from New Jersey, expressed her admiration for Kennedy, stating, “He tells it how it is. He doesn’t sound like a politician.” Others, like Brent Snyder, a disabled veteran from South Philadelphia, expressed a desire for change and unity in the country. Snyder, who had previously voted for Trump, commented, “The division right now is just terrible. We need someone to bring both sides together to make us work.”

Robert F. Kennedy Jr’s decision comes on the heels of progressive activist Cornel West’s switch from a Green Party bid to an independent run. Additionally, the centrist group No Labels is actively working to secure ballot access for an as-yet-unnamed candidate.

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Accusations of DNC ‘Rigging’

Robert F. Kennedy Jr had spent weeks accusing the Democratic National Committee (DNC) of bias against his primary campaign. He criticized the DNC’s refusal to hold debates between Biden and other candidates and their decision to prioritize South Carolina over Iowa or New Hampshire in the primary calendar. In response, Kennedy had threatened to explore alternative options.

Notably, Kennedy has forged relationships with far-right figures in recent years, appearing on platforms associated with conspiracy theorist Alex Jones and participating in the ReAwaken America Tour led by Michael Flynn, Trump’s former national security adviser.

Polarizing Views on Vaccines

Kennedy’s anti-vaccine stance has garnered both support and controversy. His organization, Children’s Health Defense, is currently involved in a lawsuit against various news organizations, including The Associated Press, accusing them of antitrust violations by fact-checking COVID-19 and vaccine-related information. Despite the scientific consensus on the safety and efficacy of vaccines, Kennedy remains vocal in his distrust of COVID-19 vaccines.

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Kennedy’s Independent Campaign

With his official declaration, Robert F. Kennedy Jr embarks on an independent presidential campaign. His campaign team plans to host events in Texas, Florida, and Georgia, with the goal of gaining ballot access in all states ahead of the November 2024 election.

Independent and third-party candidates historically face challenges in gaining substantial support in presidential elections. Notable exceptions include Ross Perot’s 1992 campaign, where he garnered 8% of the vote in a race ultimately won by Bill Clinton.

Kennedy acknowledged the uphill battle but expressed optimism about his chances, stating, “Today, we turn a new page in American politics. There have been independent candidates in this country before, but this time it’s going to be different. Because this time, the independent is gonna win.”

Mark Gorton, co-founder of American Values 2024, the super PAC supporting Kennedy’s campaign, emphasized the importance of consistent poll performance to demonstrate viability.

Impact on the General Election

Robert F. Kennedy Jr’s entry into the race as an independent introduces uncertainty into an already closely contested general election. A Reuters/Ipsos poll conducted last week among likely voters in a hypothetical three-way race between Biden, Trump, and Kennedy showed 14% support for Kennedy, 40% for Trump, and 38% for Biden. However, with over a year until the general election, it remains unclear if Kennedy can translate his level of support into actual votes in November 2024.

Kennedy aims to appeal to both Biden and Trump supporters, emphasizing his intention to disrupt the two-party system, which he claims has contributed to division in the country.

Opposition and Criticism

Unsurprisingly, Robert F. Kennedy Jr’s decision to run as an independent has drawn criticism from both sides of the political spectrum. Trump campaign spokesperson Steven Cheung described Kennedy as a “liberal parading in conservative’s clothing” and criticized his positions on China, guns, the environment, and abortion.

In addition, Kennedy’s own relatives denounced his candidature in a united statement, calling it “dangerous to our country.” They argued that despite Kennedy having the same last name as them, he did not share their opinions or outlook.

The 2024 presidential race, which is still evolving, becomes even more difficult with Kennedy’s independent candidacy, making it one to watch in the coming months.

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FAQs

1. What is Robert F. Kennedy Jr’s background?

A) A well-known environmental attorney and anti-vaccine campaigner is Robert F. Kennedy Jr. He comes from one of the most well-known Democratic dynasties in American politics, the Kennedy family.

2. Why did Robert F. Kennedy Jr choose for running as an individual for the position of president?

A) Kennedy decided to run as an independent after his Democratic primary bid faced challenges, and he felt that the Democratic National Committee was biased against him. He thinks his chances of winning the 2024 presidential election are stronger if he runs as an independent.

3. What are some of the key issues associated with Kennedy’s campaign?

A) Kennedy’s campaign is notable for his anti-vaccine stance, his accusations of DNC bias, and his intention to disrupt the two-party system. He means to interest electors who are embittered with the two liberals and conservatives.

4. How does Kennedy’s entry into the race impact the 2024 presidential election?

A) Election uncertainty is increased by Robert F. Kennedy Jr’s independent run, which might change the dynamic among President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump. Some believe he could throw the race off.

5. What are some of the criticisms and opposition to Kennedy’s candidacy?

A) Critics claim that Kennedy is contentious due to his views on a range of topics, including vaccinations and the environment. His own relatives have also voiced resistance to his election, citing disparities in moral standards and judgment.