Robert F Kennedy Jr, nephew of JFK, is running as an independent with extreme views. He could impact votes for Biden and Trump. Eliza Collins from Wall Street Journal discusses his campaign, controversial beliefs, and potential disruption in the election race.
RFK Jr's candidacy may split votes, impacting both major parties.
RFK Jr's controversial views on vaccines and border control pose challenges.
Deep dives
Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s Campaign as an Independent Candidate
Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a nephew of former President John F. Kennedy, is running as an independent candidate in the US presidential election. Leveraging his family's name recognition, he initially entered the Democratic primary but later switched to an independent bid. Despite his alignment with some traditional Democratic values like support for social issues, he also holds views outside the mainstream, questioning vaccines and advocating for aggressive border control.
Challenges and Controversies Surrounding RFK Jr.'s Campaign
RFK Jr. faces criticism from his own family members, who believe he could aid Donald Trump's re-election by splitting votes. His campaign is marked by controversial stances such as questioning vaccines and advocating for positions outside the typical Democratic agenda, like stricter border controls. Additionally, he has faced health concerns, including recent reports of a health issue involving a parasite in his brain.
Impact and Uncertainty of RFK Jr.'s Candidacy
Although RFK Jr.'s chances of winning the election are slim, his candidacy could potentially impact the race by diverting votes from both major party candidates. Polls indicate he may draw slightly more support from Trump voters than Biden voters, leading to increased scrutiny and attacks from both campaigns. RFK Jr.'s focus on unity and addressing income inequality distinguishes him from traditional party lines, positioning him as a wildcard in a closely contested election.
He shares one of the most famous names in US political history, but can he change the course of the next US election?
Robert F Kennedy Jr, a nephew of the former president John F Kennedy is running as an independent and while he won’t win, he could steal votes from both Joe Biden and Donald Trump.
Today, Eliza Collins from the Wall Street Journal on Kennedy’s campaign, his extreme views and how he could become a problem for both camps.
Featured:
Eliza Collins, Wall Street Journal national political reporter
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