Biden Gains Key Endorsement From Kennedy Family Amid RFK Jr.'s Independent Bid
President Joe Biden solidified his reelection bid in Philadelphia with a strong endorsement from the influential Kennedy family amidst a family split.
Daily Mail reported that President Joe Biden secured a significant public endorsement from the Kennedy family at an event in Philadelphia during a crucial moment in his reelection campaign.
Notably, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who is running for the presidency as an independent, was explicitly excluded from this endorsement. This support from one of America's most prominent political families highlights a deep-seated divide both within the family and in the political landscape.
Amidst the internal family conflict, several members of the Kennedy family, including Kerry Kennedy, vocally opposed RFK Jr.'s independent presidential campaign. They criticized his alignment with controversial views and conspiracy theories, especially concerning vaccines. The disapproval was about his political ideologies and his use of the family name to gain political traction.
Unity Against RFK Jr.'s Candidacy
Last month, during the St. Patrick’s Day celebrations at the White House, dozens of Kennedy family members appeared to show unity with Biden.
Their participation in these events and public statements made after that delineate a clear family stance favoring Biden over RFK Jr. This unison was highlighted again in Philadelphia, where a significant gathering of Kennedys endorsed Biden.
Speaking on behalf of the family at the Philadelphia campaign event, Kerry Kennedy affirmed that President Biden is the rightful carrier of her father, Robert F. Kennedy Sr.'s legacy, emphasizing justice, human rights, and democracy. She rejected that her brother, RFK Jr., aligns with these family principles in his present political conduct.
Kerry Kennedy's Stirring Endorsement Speech
Sister Kerry Kennedy vehemently supported Biden, associating his principles with those cherished by her father and other revered Kennedy ancestors.
"President Biden has been a champion for all the rights and freedoms that my father and uncles stood for," she declared, solidifying the family's backing for Biden over RFK Jr., who has diverged on key issues, including public health measures.
Further stressing the divergence in values between Biden’s and RFK Jr.’s viewpoints, Kerry mentioned, "I can only imagine how Donald Trump’s outrageous lies and behavior would have horrified my father, who proudly served as attorney general of the United States, and honored his pledge to uphold the law and protect the country."
The comparison between past and present values continued with Kerry emphasizing, "Daddy stood for equal justice, human rights, and freedom from want and fear. Just as President Biden does today."
Family's Political Activity and Public Commitment
Following the Philadelphia event, the Kennedy family plans to participate in Biden's campaign activities actively. At least 15 family members are expected to join him at a forthcoming event. Their involvement includes door-knocking and running phone banks, illustrating their commitment to ensuring Biden’s reelection.
The political stance of the Kennedy family was evident not only in their endorsement but also in their physical presence and activities supporting Biden. Such collective actions underscore their concern over RFK Jr.'s independent run, which they see as politically dangerous.
Expressing a collective family worry, siblings Rory, Kerry, Joseph P. Kennedy II, and Kathleen Kennedy Townsend articulated, "Our brother Bobby's decision to run as a third-party candidate against Joe Biden is dangerous to our country."
RFK Jr.'s Controversial Utilization of Family Legacy
RFK Jr., known for his environmental advocacy and anti-vaccine activism, has stirred controversy by using the Kennedy family legacy in his campaign promotion.
His campaign strategies include a controversial ad reminiscent of JFK’s 1960 campaign. This move has splintered his support among various voter groups, particularly impacting the traditional bases of both major parties.
A recent survey suggested a noticeable shift in the voter base. Some of Biden’s 2020 supporters now lean towards RFK Jr., signaling a potential challenge for Biden from within his former coalition.
Amid this complex political battle, Joe Biden and his aides appear resolved, demonstrated by his return to the White House with Bruce Reed after the Philadelphia event, gearing up for the coming electoral confrontations.
Conclusion: The Kennedy Blessing Amidst Political Rifts
The Kennedy family's endorsement of Joe Biden marks a significant highlight in the 2024 election cycle. Coupled with public rejections of RFK Jr.'s candidacy, the family's unified front could influence public perception and voter decisions in Biden's favor.
This political endorsement reiterates Kennedy's deep historical and ideological bonds with core American values of justice and democracy, which they believe are embodied by President Biden. As the campaign season heats up, such endorsements might prove pivotal in shaping the final vote.