Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced on Sunday that his endorsement of Donald Trump is not motivated by revenge against the Democratic Party. Instead, he emphasized his commitment to actively campaign for Trump, despite their disagreements on certain issues. Kennedy’s decision marks a significant shift in the political landscape as the 2024 presidential race heats up.
RFK Jr.’s Endorsement of Trump
In an interview on Fox News Sunday with Shannon Bream, Kennedy made it clear that his support for Trump is not driven by resentment toward Democrats, who he claims blocked him from seeking the nomination. He explained that his endorsement is based on shared goals, particularly in areas like ending the war in Ukraine and fighting censorship.
Kennedy revealed that he plans to remain on the ballot in about 30 states but will withdraw from 10 key swing states where his candidacy could act as a spoiler. “In the states where I would have been a spoiler, I’m going to get out. It’s about 10 states,” he said, underscoring his strategic approach to the campaign.
Cooperation with Trump
Kennedy disclosed that he had multiple conversations with Trump, including discussions after an assassination attempt on him. These talks led to an invitation from Trump to form a “unity government”—a proposal that Kennedy accepted, with the understanding that they could still criticize each other on issues where they disagree.
“But these issues are so important for unifying our country, we need in this country to reach a point where we love our children more than we hate each other,” Kennedy said, emphasizing the need for national unity.
Despite speculation, Kennedy stated there have been no discussions about Cabinet positions in exchange for his endorsement. His focus, he said, is on the issues that matter most to him and Trump.
Family Reaction and Public Response
Kennedy’s endorsement of Trump has sparked strong reactions, particularly from his family. His sister, Kerry Kennedy, and other siblings released a statement denouncing his decision. Speaking on MSNBC’s “Inside With Jen Psaki,” Kerry Kennedy expressed her outrage, stating that their father, Robert F. Kennedy, would have opposed Trump’s principles.
“If my dad were alive today, the real Robert Kennedy would have detested almost everything that Trump represents,” Kerry Kennedy said. She made it clear that she and her siblings completely “disavow and separate, dissociate” themselves from RFK Jr.’s endorsement of Trump, viewing it as a betrayal of their father’s legacy.
Kennedy’s Defense Against Criticism
When asked if his endorsement of Trump was an act of revenge against the Democratic Party, Kennedy firmly denied it, stating that such emotions had “zero” influence on his decision. “In anything in my life, I don’t act out of anger or revenge or resentment. It’s a bad motivation, like swallowing poison hoping someone else will die,” he explained. Kennedy described himself as “pragmatic and practical,” focusing on what he believes is best for the country.
Conclusion
Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s endorsement of Donald Trump has not only deepened the rift within his own family but also created ripples across the political spectrum. While he continues to defend his decision as a strategic move for national unity, the backlash from his family and others suggests that his choice may have far-reaching implications for the 2024 presidential race.
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