Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Defends Trump Endorsement Amid Family Backlash

From The Right:

• Trending Politics News: “Kennedy’s alignment with Trump sends a strong message to those who are frustrated with the political status quo. His endorsement might just be the game-changer needed to tilt the election in Trump’s favor” .
• Slay News: “This move by RFK Jr. underscores a significant shift in the political landscape. His endorsement of Trump could consolidate anti-establishment sentiments, drawing support from both disillusioned Democrats and independents” .

From The Left

• A DNC memo mentioned that Kennedy’s endorsement would not sway many voters, emphasizing that his campaign had already lost significant support, and his favorability had decreased among voters as more became aware of his controversial stances​ POLITICO
• Various liberal pundits and analysts have criticized Kennedy for aligning with Trump, especially given Trump’s contentious stance on numerous issues, such as immigration and climate change. They argue that Kennedy’s move seems opportunistic rather than based on any shared principles​ POLITICO
  

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. addressed criticism from his wife and other members of the Kennedy family on Sunday following his endorsement of former President Donald Trump.

Kennedy endorses Trump and blasts Democrats. pic.twitter.com/RBHvaSm1nd

— Shermichael Singleton (@MrShermichael) August 23, 2024

During an appearance on “Fox News Sunday” with host Shannon Bream, Kennedy responded to questions about the backlash from his family, particularly after his siblings publicly condemned his endorsement. Bream referenced a letter from Kennedy’s siblings, issued on Friday, that criticized his decision.

“My family has long been at the heart of the Democratic Party. I have relatives who are currently working for the Biden administration. President Biden even has a bust of my father in the Oval Office, and he has been a close friend of our family for many years,” Kennedy explained. “I understand that my choices have upset them. I love my family deeply. We were raised in an environment where we were encouraged to debate and argue passionately about our beliefs but still maintain our love and respect for each other.”

He continued, “They are entitled to their own views on these matters. Many of my family members are actively involved in my campaign and support me.” Kennedy emphasized the importance of being able to disagree while maintaining familial love and respect, stating, “I believe we should be able to hold different opinions and still care for one another.”

BREAKING: Cheryl Hines (@CherylHines) reportedly opposes her husband @RobertKennedyJr endorsing Donald Trump when he drops out of the race today. pic.twitter.com/q3xjI1zXFy

— Simon Ateba (@simonateba) August 23, 2024

Kennedy also acknowledged that his wife, actress Cheryl Hines, has not fully supported his endorsement of Trump. Hines expressed her discomfort publicly, sharing on social media her decision to distance herself from his political stance. Kennedy admitted that she was “very uncomfortable” with his decision.

Meanwhile, Kennedy’s siblings reaffirmed their support for Vice President Kamala Harris in a public letter released shortly after Kennedy announced his support for Trump. They argued that Kennedy had “betrayed” the values of their family.

“We envision an America that is hopeful, united by a collective vision of a brighter future—one that champions individual freedom, economic opportunity, and national pride,” read the statement from five of Kennedy’s siblings. “We believe in Harris and Walz. Our brother Bobby’s decision to endorse Trump is a betrayal of the principles our father and our family have always held dear. It is a disheartening end to a disappointing chapter.”

The statement was signed by Kathleen Kennedy Townsend, Courtney Kennedy, Kerry Kennedy, Chris Kennedy, and Rory Kennedy. Joe Kennedy III, a grandson of Robert F. Kennedy, also shared the statement on social media, adding that it was “well said.”

Kennedy Endorses Trump saying the Democratic Party “has become the party of the war, censorship, corruption, big pharma, big tech, big money.” pic.twitter.com/JifvRSKzjc

— ProudPatriotUS🇺🇲 (@PrPatriotUS) August 23, 2024

In his endorsement of Trump, RFK Jr. accused the Democratic National Committee (DNC) of conducting a “continued legal war” against both Trump and himself. He claimed that the DNC orchestrated a “sham primary” to prevent any substantial challenge to President Biden. Kennedy dropped out of the race in July and subsequently endorsed Harris, expressing frustration with the Democratic Party’s handling of the primary process.

More quotes

• Daily Wire: “RFK Jr.’s endorsement of Trump is a significant move that could sway independent and undecided voters in key battleground states. This endorsement signals a shift towards a broader coalition against the Biden-Harris administration” .
• Daily Caller: “Pollsters believe RFK Jr.’s support could provide a crucial boost to Trump’s campaign in the final stretch. With his anti-establishment appeal, Kennedy’s backing could be the difference in a close election” .
• Breitbart: “RFK Jr.’s decision to endorse Trump reflects a growing dissatisfaction among Americans with the current Democratic leadership. His endorsement could unite diverse voter groups who seek change in Washington” .

Major Points:

• Robert F. Kennedy Jr. defended his endorsement of former President Donald Trump, addressing criticism from his wife, Cheryl Hines, and other members of the Kennedy family who have openly disagreed with his decision.
• During an interview on “Fox News Sunday,” Kennedy acknowledged that his decision to support Trump has caused tension within his family, which has deep roots in the Democratic Party, but emphasized the importance of respecting different viewpoints.
• Kennedy’s siblings publicly condemned his endorsement of Trump, releasing a statement that called his actions a “betrayal” of their family’s values and expressing support for Vice President Kamala Harris instead.
• Cheryl Hines, Kennedy’s wife, expressed discomfort with his endorsement of Trump, and Kennedy admitted that she was not fully supportive of his decision.
• Kennedy criticized the Democratic National Committee (DNC), accusing them of manipulating the primary process to secure President Biden’s nomination and claiming that the DNC’s actions led him to endorse Trump after dropping out of the race in July.

Lap Fu Ip – Reprinted with permission of Whatfinger News