The Kennedy family is facing internal strife after former independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. endorsed Donald Trump in his bid for the presidency. Max Kennedy, brother of Robert, criticized the endorsement as a “hollow grab for power” in an opinion piece in the Los Angeles Times, urging Americans to disregard it. Many members of the Kennedy family have denounced the endorsement, with some calling it a betrayal and others expressing disgust at the decision. Max Kennedy emphasized that their late father, Robert F. Kennedy, would have despised Trump and instead would have admired Kamala Harris for her commitment to values such as decency, equality, and justice.
Steven Cheung, Trump’s campaign spokesperson, responded to Max Kennedy’s opinion piece by stating that Trump is working to Save America from what he referred to as “Comrade Kamala,” and urged everyone to support the President. Robert F. Kennedy, the brothers’ father, was a former U.S. Attorney General and held other prominent positions in government, while Harris, the Democratic nominee, also has a background in law similar to that of Robert F. Kennedy. Max Kennedy, also a lawyer, expressed his dismay at the support his brother has given to Trump, a man he believes does not align with their family’s values.
It has been reported that Kennedy Jr. attempted to endorse Harris in exchange for a position in her administration, and when that did not materialize, he turned to supporting Trump. Max Kennedy characterized the move as a strategic attempt at relevance and a betrayal of their family’s legacy. He highlighted the stark differences between their father’s values and Trump’s political rhetoric, speaking out against his brother’s endorsement. Max Kennedy urged Americans to ignore his brother and instead support Vice President Kamala Harris and the Democratic platform, which he believes is in the best interest of the country.
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. took to social media to explain his interpretation of Trump’s campaign slogan, “Make America Great Again,” stating that it signifies a return to a nation of vitality, prosperity, and democracy. He shared his experiences talking to Trump supporters and members of his inner circle, asserting that they want to restore an America that leads in innovation and technology. Kennedy Jr.’s exit from the presidential race raises questions about its impact on the national election, particularly given the tight margins of the race between Harris and Trump. The two candidates are set to participate in their first debate on September 10.
