Independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has responded to criticism from members of his family regarding his support for former President Donald Trump. Last week, Kennedy announced the suspension of his presidential campaign but stated that he would remain on the ballot in states where neither Trump nor Vice President Kamala Harris, the Democratic Party’s nominee for president, were competitive.
Kennedy then appeared alongside Trump at a rally in Arizona after announcing his endorsement of the former president. During a recent interview on “Fox News Sunday,” Kennedy addressed questions about a letter issued by several members of his family that condemned his public support for Trump and gained significant traction on social media over the weekend.
Kennedy acknowledged that some members of his family are working for the Biden administration and emphasized their close relationship with President Joe Biden. He stated that while they may be troubled by his decisions, he still loves them and respects their right to hold different positions.
The independent candidate highlighted that healthy debate was encouraged within their upbringing and expressed belief in maintaining familial love despite disagreements. He also mentioned that many members of his family are actively involved in supporting him and working on his campaign.
In response to Kennedy’s endorsement of Trump, five siblings publicly expressed their support for Harris and her running mate Tim Walz. They asserted their belief in an America united by hope, individual freedom, economic promise, and national pride.
The letter was signed by Kathleen Kennedy Townsend, Courtney Kennedy, Kerry Kennedy, Chris Kennedy, Rory Kennedy as well as posted by Joe Kennedy III and criticized by Jack Schlossberg on social media platforms.
This is not the first time that some members of the Kennedy clan have disagreed with Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s political endeavors or criticized him for expressing views on childhood vaccines. When he switched from being a Democratic candidate to an independent last year in October, several family members voiced similar concerns.
Following his announcement endorsing Trump on August 23rd this year, Robert F. Kenney acknowledged that certain individuals close to him would be disappointed with this decision but maintained internal peace due to certainty about its alignment with what he believes is meant for him.
He also accused the Democratic National Committee (DNC) of waging a legal battle against both himself and Trump’s campaigns while outlining reasons behind supporting the former president such as freedom of speech issues; conflicts between Ukraine-Russia; concerns related to children’s welfare; among others.
Kennedy previously mentioned that Cheryl Hines—his wife who is known for her role in “Curb Your Enthusiasm”—has not fully supported his candidacy publicly but extended gratitude towards those who have tirelessly worked towards promoting it through social media posts.