On Thursday, President Joe Biden received the formal endorsement of more than a dozen members of the Kennedy family, highlighting their rejection of a third-party challenge mounted by Robert F. Kennedy Jr. The broader Kennedy family has shunned RFK Jr.’s campaign, calling it “dangerous,” despite his attempts to capitalize on his family name. The event in Philadelphia emphasized the threat Kennedy poses to Biden as he seeks reelection, facing the potential of a low-performing third-party candidate acting as a spoiler.
During the event, Kerry Kennedy, one of RFK Jr.’s sisters, introduced Biden and praised him as a champion for the rights and freedoms her father and uncles stood for. She also warned of the threats posed by Donald Trump to democracy and freedom, stating that Trump’s lies and behavior would have deeply troubled her late father. She called for Biden’s reelection campaign to unite not only Democrats but all Americans, including Republicans and independents. Civil rights leader John White Jr. also discussed how the Kennedy family influenced his public service work.
Biden has often emphasized his ties to the Kennedys, citing Robert F. Kennedy Sr. as a personal inspiration in his political career. He has appointed three family members to diplomatic posts in his administration and hosted the extended clan at the White House for various events. Many Kennedy family members have already announced their support for Biden in November, expressing concerns that RFK Jr.’s campaign could potentially undermine Biden’s chances of defeating Trump. However, RFK Jr. has downplayed any family rift, stating that disagreements are common among large families.
The Kennedy family members attending Biden’s event included several prominent figures such as Rory Kennedy, Kerry Kennedy, Joe Kennedy II, and Ted Kennedy Jr., among others. RFK Jr.’s presidential bid has faced criticism from within his own family, with concerns that his candidacy could impact the outcome of the election in favor of Trump. The event in Philadelphia aimed to showcase the support and endorsement of the Kennedy family for Biden’s reelection campaign, highlighting the values and principles they believe he upholds in contrast to the current administration.
Overall, the endorsement of President Biden by the Kennedy family underscores the importance of unity and support within the Democratic Party during a critical election year. By coming together to support Biden’s reelection, the Kennedys are sending a strong message of solidarity and commitment to defeating Donald Trump and preserving the fundamental rights and freedoms that their family has long fought for. The event in Philadelphia serves as a reminder of the collective strength and influence of the Kennedy family in American politics and their dedication to advancing progressive values and principles in the face of ongoing challenges.
