Robert F. Kennedy Jr., an anti-vaccine activist and environmental lawyer, announced his bid for the 2024 Democratic presidential nomination on April 19, 2023. Kennedy is the oldest son of U.S. Sen. Robert F. Kennedy and the nephew of former President John F. Kennedy. He is known for his anti-vaccine advocacy, which has been at odds with the public health and scientific community and members of his own family. Kennedy filed a statement of candidacy earlier and is set to challenge incumbent President Joe Biden for the nomination. Kennedy launched his campaign in Boston and likened it to the American revolution. He plans to end the “corrupt merger of government and big pharma” and to “restore democracy to the American people”. Kennedy’s campaign is considered a longshot, and he will join self-help guru Marianne Williamson in the presidential primary that President Joe Biden is soon expected to enter as the overwhelming favorite.
What are the reactions to his presidential bid?
Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s presidential bid has received mixed reactions. Some believe that his anti-vaccine advocacy and controversial views will make his campaign a long shot and ultimately fail. Others see his candidacy as a potential source of chaos and disruption in the Democratic primary, with former Trump adviser Steve Bannon reportedly encouraging Kennedy to run. Congressman Neal has weighed in on the impact of Kennedy’s candidacy, stating that he is not sure how it will affect the Democratic primary. It is still early in the election cycle, and it remains to be seen how Kennedy’s campaign will develop and how it will be received by the public and the Democratic Party.
Who are his main supporters and opponents in the presidential race?
It is not clear who Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s main supporters and opponents are in the presidential race. Some members of the Kennedy family have expressed their opposition to his candidacy due to his anti-vaccine advocacy. However, former Trump adviser Steve Bannon has reportedly been encouraging Kennedy to run, believing that he could be a useful chaos agent in the race. It is likely that Kennedy’s candidacy will face significant opposition from the Democratic Party establishment, as his views on vaccines are at odds with the scientific consensus and public health recommendations. Congressman Neal has acknowledged Kennedy’s candidacy but has not commented on it further.
