Kennedy Campaign Weighs Trump Endorsement
Nicole Shanahan, running mate of Robert F. Kennedy Jr., has revealed that the Kennedy campaign is contemplating exiting the 2024 presidential race to endorse former President Donald Trump. Shanahan explained that this move could reduce the risk of Vice President Kamala Harris becoming president, a concern driving their potential decision, according to ABC7 Chicago.
In a recent interview on the “Impact Theory” podcast with Tom Bilyeu, Shanahan disclosed that Kennedy’s campaign has engaged in discussions with Trump’s team. These conversations have focused on the possibility of Kennedy endorsing Trump in exchange for a significant role within a potential Trump administration. Shanahan framed the decision as a strategic move, emphasizing that Kennedy could pull more votes away from Trump than from Harris if he remains in the race, potentially paving the way for a Harris victory.
“There are two paths we’re considering: staying in the race, which could inadvertently support a Kamala Harris presidency by splitting Trump’s vote, or stepping aside to align with Trump,” Shanahan stated. She further suggested that Trump’s stance on critical issues, such as vaccine safety, aligns more closely with the Kennedy campaign’s priorities than the prospect of a Harris administration.
Shanahan also speculated about the role Kennedy might assume in a Trump administration, hinting at a possible position as secretary of health and human services. She expressed confidence that Kennedy could significantly impact this role, should he decide to endorse Trump and withdraw from the race.
Trump responded positively to the idea of Kennedy joining his administration, praising Kennedy as a “brilliant” individual and expressing openness to receiving his endorsement. “I like him a lot. I respect him a lot,” Trump said. “If he decides to endorse me, I’d certainly consider him for a role in my administration.”
These developments have stirred unease among some Kennedy supporters, who feel disillusioned by the potential shift in campaign strategy. Bryce Lipscomb, a prominent supporter, voiced his disappointment on social media, stating that he felt “abandoned” after dedicating substantial time and resources to the campaign.
The Democratic National Committee (DNC) has been critical of Kennedy’s campaign, labeling it as a spoiler effort designed to benefit Trump. Lis Smith, a DNC communications advisor, asserted that Shanahan’s comments only reinforce their suspicions, suggesting that Kennedy’s campaign was always intended to disrupt the race in Trump’s favor.
Kennedy’s campaign has struggled to gain significant traction, with recent polls placing him far behind both Harris and Trump. Despite these challenges, Shanahan remains hopeful for a “miracle” that might allow them to qualify for the upcoming ABC News presidential debate. However, she acknowledged the difficulties posed by opposition from Democratic groups, which she believes have “turned us into a spoiler.”
Shanahan denied any talks with the Harris campaign regarding a possible endorsement or cabinet position but confirmed that the Kennedy campaign had offered to engage with various political leaders on policy discussions and potential cabinet roles.
As the Kennedy campaign continues to weigh its options, the potential endorsement of Trump by Kennedy could have far-reaching implications for the 2024 presidential race, particularly in the ongoing contest between Trump and Harris.
