Trump says he’s “very honored” by RFK Jr. endorsement

[Social Media]

 

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has suspended his independent campaign for the U.S. presidency and thrown his support behind former President Donald Trump. This unexpected endorsement comes as a significant twist in the run-up to the 2024 election, particularly given Kennedy’s deep roots in the Democratic Party and his iconic family’s legacy.

What was your reaction when Robert Kennedy Jr. took the stage in Arizona after endorsing Donald Trump? pic.twitter.com/4O6F4g8LJQ

— Simon Ateba (@simonateba) August 24, 2024

 

Kennedy, aged 70, has been a Democrat for most of his life. As a member of the Kennedy dynasty, he has long been associated with the values and principles of the Democratic Party. However, during a press conference in Phoenix, Arizona, on Friday, Kennedy announced that the same principles that led him to leave the Democratic Party now compel him "to throw my support to President Trump." This decision marks a profound shift in his political trajectory and has sparked both controversy and speculation.

I am sharing a personal statement that my family and I have made in response to my brother’s announcement. pic.twitter.com/j7vTTabNYZ

— Kerry Kennedy (@KerryKennedyRFK) August 23, 2024

 

Kennedy’s announcement came with the news that he would seek to remove his name from the ballot in ten key battleground states, signaling a clear intent to consolidate support behind Trump. At a rally in Glendale, Arizona, Trump praised Kennedy, calling him "phenomenal" and "brilliant," as he welcomed him on stage. In contrast, Democratic rival Kamala Harris responded to the development by stating her intention to "earn" the support of Kennedy voters, recognizing the potential impact this endorsement could have on the election.

 

Kennedy’s campaign had initially garnered significant attention and support, with polling figures reaching double digits at one point. However, as funds dwindled and national coverage waned, his numbers began to slump. The once-promising independent campaign struggled to maintain its momentum, particularly as November’s election loomed closer.

 

As the son of U.S. Senator Robert F. Kennedy and nephew of President John F. Kennedy, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. hails from one of the most revered families in Democratic politics. His decision to back a Republican candidate for the White House has outraged many of his relatives. Earlier in the year, they had already condemned his invocation of the family name in a Super Bowl advertisement. Kerry Kennedy, his sister, expressed her dismay by describing his support for Trump as a "betrayal of the values that our father and our family hold most dear. It is a sad ending to a sad story."

 

The personal toll of this decision was evident in Kennedy’s remarks on Friday. He acknowledged the difficulties it caused for his family, stating, "This decision is agonizing for me because of the difficulties it causes my wife and my children and my friends. But I have the certainty that this is what I’m meant to do. And that certainty gives me internal peace, even in storms." His wife, Cheryl Hines, known for her role in HBO’s comedy "Curb Your Enthusiasm," publicly expressed her respect for his decision to suspend the campaign but chose not to comment on his endorsement of Trump.

 

Kennedy’s alignment with Trump seems to stem from shared views on several key issues. He highlighted Trump’s insistence that he could end the war in Ukraine through negotiations with Russia as a significant factor in his decision. "That alone would justify my support for his campaign," Kennedy told reporters on Friday. However, he also acknowledged that there remain "many issues and approaches on which we continue to have very serious differences. But we are aligned on other key issues."

 

One of Kennedy’s immediate actions following the endorsement was his decision to remove his name from ballots in ten states where his presence might act as a "spoiler" to Trump’s campaign. He has already withdrawn from battleground states like Arizona and Pennsylvania, though election officials have noted that it is too late for him to pull out from swing states like Michigan, Nevada, and Wisconsin.

 

Kennedy’s political journey has been a complex one. He launched his campaign in April 2023 as a Democrat, following in the footsteps of his father and uncle, who were champions of the Constitution. However, his disenchantment with the Democratic Party grew over time, leading him to accuse the party of becoming one of "war, censorship, corruption, big pharma, big tech, big money." His decision to suspend the campaign was attributed to what he described as "media control" and the party’s efforts to thwart his run. "In my heart, I no longer believe I have a realistic path to victory in the face of relentless and systematic censorship," Kennedy lamented.

 

At the height of his popularity, Kennedy hovered around 14% to 16% in polls. However, his ratings have since plummeted to single digits, particularly after Kamala Harris was confirmed as the Democratic nominee. Despite this, Kennedy had offered to work with Harris in her bid for the White House, though it appears that this collaboration will not materialize.

The Democratic Party has largely shrugged off Kennedy’s endorsement of Trump. Mary Beth Cahill, a senior adviser to the Democratic National Committee, remarked, "Donald Trump isn’t earning an endorsement that’s going to help build support, he’s inheriting the baggage of a failed fringe candidate. Good riddance." This response underscores the broader party’s belief that Kennedy’s decision will not significantly alter the election’s outcome.

 

Throughout his campaign, Kennedy became closely associated with the anti-vaccine movement, frequently touting his leadership of the Children’s Health Defense organization, which was formerly known as the World Mercury Project. His controversial views on vaccines and other health issues have been a defining feature of his political identity.

 

In recent weeks, Kennedy has made headlines for a variety of reasons, including recounting a bizarre incident in which he dumped a dead bear cub that had been hit by a car in New York’s Central Park in 2014 as a joke. Earlier in his campaign, it was revealed that he had suffered from a brain parasite over a decade ago, which caused severe memory loss and brain fog.

 

These stories have contributed to the perception of Kennedy as a somewhat eccentric figure in the political arena.

The rumors that preceded Kennedy’s endorsement of Trump suggested that he might be seeking a role in Trump’s potential future administration. Trump himself hinted at this possibility during an interview with CNN, where he stated that he would "certainly be open" to Kennedy playing a role. Trump’s son, Donald Trump Jr., even suggested that Kennedy would be well-suited to "blow up" a federal department.

 

Merrill Matthews, a resident scholar with the conservative Institute for Policy Innovation, offered a broader perspective on Kennedy’s decision, highlighting the difficulties inherent in the U.S. two-party system. "It shows how difficult it is to get new ideas and fresh people into the process," Matthews told the BBC. This observation reflects the broader challenges faced by independent candidates in a political system that is heavily dominated by the Democratic and Republican parties.

 

In an interview with Dr. Phil that aired on Friday night, Trump expressed his gratitude for Kennedy’s endorsement, calling it a significant moment. "I’m very honored by it," Trump said. "I’ve known him for a long time, we’ve been somewhat friendly, actually, and I think he’s going to be a great asset." Trump also floated the idea of appointing Kennedy to a role in his administration, should he win the election, though he noted that they had not yet discussed any specific position. "I think he adds a lot to the election, and I think he adds a lot to if we win," Trump added, praising Kennedy’s "very interesting ideas and good ideas."

 

During the Arizona rally, Kennedy spoke at length about his shared views with Trump, particularly on foreign policy, government censorship, and "ending the chronic disease epidemic." He recounted how he had met with Trump last month following an assassination attempt and again in Florida weeks later to discuss their common values. "We talked about not the values that separate us, because we don’t agree on everything, but on the values and issues that bind us together," Kennedy said. He emphasized their shared commitment to safe food and ending chronic disease. "Don’t you want a president that’s gonna make America healthy again?" he asked the audience.

 

Trump, in turn, proposed that Kennedy work on a panel to investigate the "decades-long increase in chronic health problems, including autoimmune disorders, autism, obesity, infertility, and many more." This proposal aligns with Kennedy’s long-standing focus on health issues and reflects their shared concern over what they perceive as government and industry failures.

 

Kennedy concluded his remarks without explicitly stating that he was endorsing Trump. However, as he finished speaking, graphics and banners around the arena declared, "RFK Jr. endorses Trump," leaving little doubt about his intentions. This development marks a significant realignment in the 2024 election, one that has left many observers pondering the future of Kennedy’s political career and the broader implications of his endorsement for the race ahead.

 

Credit: BBC | X  2024-08-24

 

 

 

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[mdr224]

7 minutes ago, Social Media said:

 

 

 

 

If JFK were alive he wouldnt be supporting Democrats. Hes rolling in his grave at what the democrat party has become

Edited August 24 by mdr224

[Thailand]

The worm has turned?

[Tug]

Birds of a feather….yada yada yada…..meh who cares they are both douches…….

[thaipo7]

1 hour ago, Tug said:

Birds of a feather….yada yada yada…..meh who cares they are both douches…….

Glad to see you worried.  About time a Democrat does something when screwed by their own kind.  Harris has not received one legal vote to get where she is.  Isn't this how the Communist come up with their leaders.  If you are a Communist just say so.  I am not.  I believe in our Government and Free Enterprise.  Our system has allowed people to live the best lives available.  Everyone is NOT the same.   I don't mind people having more wealth than me.

[illisdean]

A first. 

 

 

[newbee2022]

2 hours ago, Social Media said:

 

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has suspended his independent campaign for the U.S. presidency and thrown his support behind former President Donald Trump. This unexpected endorsement comes as a significant twist in the run-up to the 2024 election, particularly given Kennedy’s deep roots in the Democratic Party and his iconic family’s legacy.

 

Kennedy, aged 70, has been a Democrat for most of his life. As a member of the Kennedy dynasty, he has long been associated with the values and principles of the Democratic Party. However, during a press conference in Phoenix, Arizona, on Friday, Kennedy announced that the same principles that led him to leave the Democratic Party now compel him "to throw my support to President Trump." This decision marks a profound shift in his political trajectory and has sparked both controversy and speculation.

 

Kennedy’s announcement came with the news that he would seek to remove his name from the ballot in ten key battleground states, signaling a clear intent to consolidate support behind Trump. At a rally in Glendale, Arizona, Trump praised Kennedy, calling him "phenomenal" and "brilliant," as he welcomed him on stage. In contrast, Democratic rival Kamala Harris responded to the development by stating her intention to "earn" the support of Kennedy voters, recognizing the potential impact this endorsement could have on the election.

 

Kennedy’s campaign had initially garnered significant attention and support, with polling figures reaching double digits at one point. However, as funds dwindled and national coverage waned, his numbers began to slump. The once-promising independent campaign struggled to maintain its momentum, particularly as November’s election loomed closer.

 

As the son of U.S. Senator Robert F. Kennedy and nephew of President John F. Kennedy, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. hails from one of the most revered families in Democratic politics. His decision to back a Republican candidate for the White House has outraged many of his relatives. Earlier in the year, they had already condemned his invocation of the family name in a Super Bowl advertisement. Kerry Kennedy, his sister, expressed her dismay by describing his support for Trump as a "betrayal of the values that our father and our family hold most dear. It is a sad ending to a sad story."

 

The personal toll of this decision was evident in Kennedy’s remarks on Friday. He acknowledged the difficulties it caused for his family, stating, "This decision is agonizing for me because of the difficulties it causes my wife and my children and my friends. But I have the certainty that this is what I’m meant to do. And that certainty gives me internal peace, even in storms." His wife, Cheryl Hines, known for her role in HBO’s comedy "Curb Your Enthusiasm," publicly expressed her respect for his decision to suspend the campaign but chose not to comment on his endorsement of Trump.

 

Kennedy’s alignment with Trump seems to stem from shared views on several key issues. He highlighted Trump’s insistence that he could end the war in Ukraine through negotiations with Russia as a significant factor in his decision. "That alone would justify my support for his campaign," Kennedy told reporters on Friday. However, he also acknowledged that there remain "many issues and approaches on which we continue to have very serious differences. But we are aligned on other key issues."

 

One of Kennedy’s immediate actions following the endorsement was his decision to remove his name from ballots in ten states where his presence might act as a "spoiler" to Trump’s campaign. He has already withdrawn from battleground states like Arizona and Pennsylvania, though election officials have noted that it is too late for him to pull out from swing states like Michigan, Nevada, and Wisconsin.

 

Kennedy’s political journey has been a complex one. He launched his campaign in April 2023 as a Democrat, following in the footsteps of his father and uncle, who were champions of the Constitution. However, his disenchantment with the Democratic Party grew over time, leading him to accuse the party of becoming one of "war, censorship, corruption, big pharma, big tech, big money." His decision to suspend the campaign was attributed to what he described as "media control" and the party’s efforts to thwart his run. "In my heart, I no longer believe I have a realistic path to victory in the face of relentless and systematic censorship," Kennedy lamented.

 

At the height of his popularity, Kennedy hovered around 14% to 16% in polls. However, his ratings have since plummeted to single digits, particularly after Kamala Harris was confirmed as the Democratic nominee. Despite this, Kennedy had offered to work with Harris in her bid for the White House, though it appears that this collaboration will not materialize.

The Democratic Party has largely shrugged off Kennedy’s endorsement of Trump. Mary Beth Cahill, a senior adviser to the Democratic National Committee, remarked, "Donald Trump isn’t earning an endorsement that’s going to help build support, he’s inheriting the baggage of a failed fringe candidate. Good riddance." This response underscores the broader party’s belief that Kennedy’s decision will not significantly alter the election’s outcome.

 

Throughout his campaign, Kennedy became closely associated with the anti-vaccine movement, frequently touting his leadership of the Children’s Health Defense organization, which was formerly known as the World Mercury Project. His controversial views on vaccines and other health issues have been a defining feature of his political identity.

 

In recent weeks, Kennedy has made headlines for a variety of reasons, including recounting a bizarre incident in which he dumped a dead bear cub that had been hit by a car in New York’s Central Park in 2014 as a joke. Earlier in his campaign, it was revealed that he had suffered from a brain parasite over a decade ago, which caused severe memory loss and brain fog.

 

These stories have contributed to the perception of Kennedy as a somewhat eccentric figure in the political arena.

The rumors that preceded Kennedy’s endorsement of Trump suggested that he might be seeking a role in Trump’s potential future administration. Trump himself hinted at this possibility during an interview with CNN, where he stated that he would "certainly be open" to Kennedy playing a role. Trump’s son, Donald Trump Jr., even suggested that Kennedy would be well-suited to "blow up" a federal department.

 

Merrill Matthews, a resident scholar with the conservative Institute for Policy Innovation, offered a broader perspective on Kennedy’s decision, highlighting the difficulties inherent in the U.S. two-party system. "It shows how difficult it is to get new ideas and fresh people into the process," Matthews told the BBC. This observation reflects the broader challenges faced by independent candidates in a political system that is heavily dominated by the Democratic and Republican parties.

 

In an interview with Dr. Phil that aired on Friday night, Trump expressed his gratitude for Kennedy’s endorsement, calling it a significant moment. "I’m very honored by it," Trump said. "I’ve known him for a long time, we’ve been somewhat friendly, actually, and I think he’s going to be a great asset." Trump also floated the idea of appointing Kennedy to a role in his administration, should he win the election, though he noted that they had not yet discussed any specific position. "I think he adds a lot to the election, and I think he adds a lot to if we win," Trump added, praising Kennedy’s "very interesting ideas and good ideas."

 

During the Arizona rally, Kennedy spoke at length about his shared views with Trump, particularly on foreign policy, government censorship, and "ending the chronic disease epidemic." He recounted how he had met with Trump last month following an assassination attempt and again in Florida weeks later to discuss their common values. "We talked about not the values that separate us, because we don’t agree on everything, but on the values and issues that bind us together," Kennedy said. He emphasized their shared commitment to safe food and ending chronic disease. "Don’t you want a president that’s gonna make America healthy again?" he asked the audience.

 

Trump, in turn, proposed that Kennedy work on a panel to investigate the "decades-long increase in chronic health problems, including autoimmune disorders, autism, obesity, infertility, and many more." This proposal aligns with Kennedy’s long-standing focus on health issues and reflects their shared concern over what they perceive as government and industry failures.

 

Kennedy concluded his remarks without explicitly stating that he was endorsing Trump. However, as he finished speaking, graphics and banners around the arena declared, "RFK Jr. endorses Trump," leaving little doubt about his intentions. This development marks a significant realignment in the 2024 election, one that has left many observers pondering the future of Kennedy’s political career and the broader implications of his endorsement for the race ahead.

 

Credit: BBC | X  2024-08-24

 

 

 

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Now 2 weirdos as partners. God bless America 🤣🤣🤣

[proton]

Cackling no policies Kamala is not laughing now  Serve the democrats right.

[illisdean]

26 minutes ago, thaipo7 said:

  Harris has not received one legal vote to get where she is.  Isn't this how the Communist come up with their leaders.

"The Dems have pushed “joy” and “freedom” as their campaign theme. But they also stressed how angry they are and how dangerous Dictator Trump is to democracy."

 

Link to quote - Townhall

 

 

 

 

 

[Skeptic7]

2 hours ago, mdr224 said:

If JFK were alive he wouldnt be supporting Democrats. Hes rolling in his grave at what the democrat party has become

Ditto for Ronald Reagan, except he wouldn't even be capable of rolling...as this MAGA Cult FUSTERCLUCK Party would kill him dead all over again. 

[jippytum]

Welcome Mr Kennedy. Sadly the Donald's endorsements are thin on the ground at the moment. 

Trump's recent trial for paying a hooker was nothing compared to Clintons activity in the oval office.  Note Clinton endorsed Harris. 

Dirty politics as usual. 

[Cameroni]

He's married to Cheryl Hines, wow. She's great in Curb. Maybe Trump can get Larry David on board now? 

[illisdean]

Polls suggest RFK jr votes could benefit Trump as republicans favor RFK more than the dems do. Big win (again) for Trump.

 

Republicans like Kennedy more than Democrats do

 

 

 

 

 

[GammaGlobulin]

Go Trump GO!

 

If Harris, then I will not be able to leave the USA.

I have already left.

 

So, If Harris, then I will move to Mars or Neptune.

 

No matter what, nothing could be worse than Harris.

 

Even RFK JR can sense this.

 

 

[novacova]

2 hours ago, Social Media said:

Kennedy, aged 70, has been a Democrat for most of his life. As a member of the Kennedy dynasty, he has long been associated with the values and principles of the Democratic Party.

 

2 hours ago, Social Media said:

Kennedy announced that the same principles that led him to leave the Democratic Party now compel him "to throw my support to President Trump."

RFK Jr hasn’t shifted a single increment, the so called “democratic party” went extreme left leaving RFK Jr the same hard core liberal who has maintained the Democratic doctrine. Heck, Trump is more inline with the democrat party principles of fifty years ago than this freak show that the left is pushing.

2 hours ago, Social Media said:

As the son of U.S. Senator Robert F. Kennedy and nephew of President John F. Kennedy, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. hails from one of the most revered families in Democratic politics.

…of which values that RFK Jr hasn’t moved from. With the onslaught of the media shaping the narrative and minds of most on the left causing shot mental attention spans, they seem to have forgotten what the Democrat Party is about and have become a cesspool of divisive name calling mess with no moral bottom.

[harryviking]

3 hours ago, mdr224 said:

If JFK were alive he wouldnt be supporting Democrats. Hes rolling in his grave at what the democrat party has become

 

1 hour ago, novacova said:

 

RFK Jr hasn’t shifted a single increment, the so called “democratic party” went extreme left leaving RFK Jr the same hard core liberal who has maintained the Democratic doctrine. Heck, Trump is more inline with the democrat party principles of fifty years ago than this freak show that the left is pushing.

…of which values that RFK Jr hasn’t moved from. With the onslaught of the media shaping the narrative and minds of most on the left causing shot mental attention spans, they seem to have forgotten what the Democrat Party is about and have become a cesspool of divisive name calling mess with no moral bottom.

 

1 hour ago, GammaGlobulin said:

Go Trump GO!

 

If Harris, then I will not be able to leave the USA.

I have already left.

 

So, If Harris, then I will move to Mars or Neptune.

 

No matter what, nothing could be worse than Harris.

 

Even RFK JR can sense this.

 

 

I do not like the Dems, but Trump is dangerous for the whole world, not only the US!! 

[BusyB]

11 minutes ago, harryviking said:

 

 

I do not like the Dems, but Trump is dangerous for the whole world, not only the US!! 

 

You also need to worry about the people behind him. He'll probably be toast after this election and they'll pick much more carefully next time.

[Thingamabob]

Not got a dog in this fight, but I like the intention  if Kennedy/Trump to focus on health issues.

[mushroomdave]

[Irish star]

3 hours ago, Thingamabob said:

Not got a dog in this fight, but I like the intention  if Kennedy/Trump to focus on health issues.

Like his last administration absolutely Nothing but try to Kill Obamacare 

[metisdead]

A post with a derogatory trolling comment to another member has been removed.

[Irish star]

3 hours ago, Thingamabob said:

Not got a dog in this fight, but I like the intention  if Kennedy/Trump to focus on health issues.

He did nothing but golf for 4 years we had healthcare under Obama , but he politicized it to discredit Obama he surely didn’t offer another health plan 

[Irish star]

5 hours ago, GammaGlobulin said:

Go Trump GO!

 

If Harris, then I will not be able to leave the USA.

I have already left.

 

So, If Harris, then I will move to Mars or Neptune.

 

No matter what, nothing could be worse than Harris.

 

Even RFK JR can sense this.

 

 

Is it blatant racism why the personal attack on her

[Thailand]

RFK said Harris would not talk to him about dropping out and endorsing her so he went to Trump.

Just a guy trying to sell his snake oil to the highest bidder and his  endorsement of Trump has made no difference to the betting odds so something of an  expected non-event.

[Expat4life66]

14 minutes ago, Thailand said:

RFK said Harris would not talk to him about dropping out and endorsing her so he went to Trump.

Just a guy trying to sell his snake oil to the highest bidder and his  endorsement of Trump has made no difference to the betting odds so something of an  expected non-event.

Dems including his family and hollywood elites not this upset since Lincoln freed the slaves in the 1860s and Democrats filibustered the civil rights act for 2 months in the 1960s

Edited August 24 by Expat4life66

[MicroB]

6 hours ago, thaipo7 said:

Glad to see you worried.  About time a Democrat does something when screwed by their own kind.  Harris has not received one legal vote to get where she is.  Isn't this how the Communist come up with their leaders.  If you are a Communist just say so.  I am not.  I believe in our Government and Free Enterprise.  Our system has allowed people to live the best lives available.  Everyone is NOT the same.   I don't mind people having more wealth than me.

 

 

Godwin's Law. Use reason. Substitute Communist for Nazi, and see how your paragraph works.

 

There are no communists on this forum. There are no nazis either. Though having said that, what are you? You demand others identify what political ideology they follow by refusing to divulge yours, which seems rather rude. You don't state an ideology yourself. There are many ideologies that believe in constitutional government and free enterprise. I can conclude you are a Tory. Or a Neoliberal? Or like Maggie Thatcher, a classical liberal? Capitalism is not a political creed.

 

You weaken all of your arguments by accusing your fellow citizens of being either communists or nazis just because they don't agree with you. And don't dare try the "Yeah, but they started is". Thats the language of a schoolboy. You are a middle aged, probably elderly man who should know better.

 

There is nothing "illegal" within the Democrat Party rule book about how Harris was selected as candidate.Its their party, their candidate. Let the voters decide rather than party cronies who previously pledge allegiance to either party.

[MicroB]

5 hours ago, GammaGlobulin said:

Go Trump GO!

 

If Harris, then I will not be able to leave the USA.

I have already left.

 

So, If Harris, then I will move to Mars or Neptune.

 

No matter what, nothing could be worse than Harris.

 

Even RFK JR can sense this.

 

 

 

Paraphrasing David Bowie, Life on Mars

 

 

 

Edited August 24 by MicroB

[GammaGlobulin]

40 minutes ago, Irish star said:

Is it blatant racism why the personal attack on her

 

No.

Not racism, I think.

Just IQ issues, and culture issues, etc.

 

[MicroB]

 

[GammaGlobulin]

3 hours ago, MicroB said:

 

Paraphrasing David Bowie, Life on Mars

 

 

 

 

Eyes are the window to the soul.

Harris' eyes are not as beautiful as the eyes of Faye Runaway....

 

 

NIKON ALL THE WAY.....!!!!

 

 

Edited August 24 by GammaGlobulin