In a surprising turn of events, the Kennedy political family has publicly expressed its support for Joe Biden in the US presidential elections. The endorsement came as a clear signal to Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who is still competing for a spot on the electoral list.
Fifteen members of the Kennedy family gathered in Philadelphia on Thursday to show their support for Biden’s campaign. During his speech, Biden spoke about the family’s legacy and their influence on his own political life, mentioning his father, former U.S. Senator and Attorney General Robert F. Kennedy, and Martin Luther King Jr. as his only political heroes growing up.
Biden emphasized the importance of looking to these examples in difficult situations and highlighted having busts of Kennedy and King in the Oval Office. The backing of the Kennedys for Biden is significant given that Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a 70-year-old with little chance at the polls in November, has faced criticism for his anti-vaccine stance and far-right contacts.
Despite Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s candidacy both within the Democratic Party and within his family, it was clear that he would not receive their support this election cycle. On stage with Biden were other Kennedy siblings, indicating their alignment with the President in the upcoming election.
The presidential race this year includes Joe Biden as well as Republican former President Donald Trump as candidates. The Kennedys’ endorsement underlines their commitment to supporting Biden’s campaign, even if one of their own is running against him.
