Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has chosen Nicole Shanahan as his vice-presidential pick for his independent White House bid. Shanahan, a California lawyer and philanthropist, leads the Bia-Echo Foundation, which focuses on issues such as women’s reproductive science, criminal justice reform, and environmental causes. Kennedy, a former Democrat, announced Shanahan as his running mate in Oakland, California, criticizing the Democratic Party and emphasizing shared values with Shanahan.
Kennedy’s decision to choose a running mate is driven by the varying rules across states for ballot access. He has already secured access in Utah and claims to have collected enough signatures in states like Arizona, Nevada, and Georgia. However, election officials have not yet approved his qualification in these swing states, presenting challenges to his candidacy. Shanahan’s nomination as vice president is a prerequisite for collecting signatures in some states, highlighting the complexities of running as an independent candidate.
In a speech introducing herself to Kennedy’s supporters, Shanahan expressed support for his anti-establishment message and criticized both major parties, the media, and the government for serving profiteers. Shanahan, who was previously married to Google co-founder Sergey Brin, brings her connections in Silicon Valley to the campaign, with Kennedy emphasizing her ability to confront the tech industry’s power. Despite facing obstacles, Kennedy urged Americans to take a risk and vote for him, challenging the belief that he cannot win.
The Democratic National Committee is preparing to counter Kennedy’s campaign, viewing him as a spoiler who could draw votes away from President Joe Biden. Republican concerns about Kennedy’s anti-establishment views and skepticism about COVID-19 measures also pose a threat, potentially attracting voters who might otherwise support former President Donald Trump. Critics within the Kennedy family have disavowed his views, and a well-funded centrist group, No Labels, is working to recruit an alternative third-party ticket.
Kennedy’s family legacy, as the son of Robert F. Kennedy and nephew of former President John F. Kennedy, adds to the intrigue of his candidacy. Despite his activism for environmental causes and clean water, Kennedy’s promotion of anti-vaccine messages has sparked controversy and legal battles. His anti-vaccine group has sued several news organizations, including The Associated Press, for allegedly violating antitrust laws by challenging misinformation about COVID-19 and vaccines. Amidst criticism and skepticism, Kennedy and Shanahan press on with their independent campaign, aiming to defy expectations and make a mark on the 2024 presidential election.
