Independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced on Wednesday that he has chosen his running mate, and the individual has accepted the position.
This revelation comes after earlier reports indicated that Kennedy was considering NFL star Aaron Rodgers or former Minnesota Governor Jesse Ventura for the role.
Speculation around Rodgers
According to ABC News, Kennedy has made the decision and communicated his intentions to the chosen individual. The New York Times had reported on Tuesday that Kennedy was exploring potential running mates, specifically mentioning Aaron Rodgers and Jesse Ventura. While Ventura’s son mentioned that there was no formal offer from Kennedy’s camp, the door remains open for Rodgers to be the chosen candidate.
Speculation around Rodgers
Aaron Rodgers, currently in Costa Rica for an Ayahuasca retreat according to an NFL news site, has not commented on the news. Born in Chico, California, Rodgers has connections to the state and continues to play in the NFL, set to join the New York Jets in the upcoming season. Rodgers, like Kennedy, is known for his skepticism toward vaccines.
Campaign Announcement Details
Kennedy’s campaign has revealed that the official announcement of his vice presidential pick will take place on Tuesday, March 26, in Oakland, California. This timing is crucial for Kennedy, as, to appear on the general election ballot in certain states as an independent candidate, he must name his running mate within the next few weeks.
The Unconventional Choice
If Aaron Rodgers becomes Kennedy’s running mate, it would be an unconventional and attention-grabbing move. However, some critics argue that such a choice might convey a lack of seriousness about winning the presidency. Democrats, including members of Kennedy’s own family, have criticized his presidential run, calling it into question.
Kennedy’s Independent Campaign Challenges
Kennedy initially started his campaign as a Democrat but later shifted to an independent run in October, aiming to avoid competing against President Joe Biden in the Democratic primaries. Achieving ballot access has proven challenging, with success only in Utah so far. The campaign claims to have gathered enough signatures for ballot access in states like Hawaii, Nevada, and New Hampshire, but these efforts are yet to be confirmed.
Super PAC Involvement and Democratic Concerns
A super PAC supporting Kennedy has aided in gaining ballot access in swing states like Arizona, Georgia, and Michigan. However, the Democratic National Committee has contested these moves, accusing the PAC of an “illegal ballot access scheme.” Democrats are worried that Kennedy’s candidacy could act as a spoiler, potentially benefiting former President Donald Trump in the 2024 election.
Kennedy’s Political Strategy
Kennedy has explored alliances with the Libertarian Party, which already holds a permanent spot on the ballot. The Libertarians will finalize their 2024 presidential ticket at an upcoming convention. As polling indicates that Kennedy attracts voters from both major parties, Democrats fear that he may disproportionately impact Biden’s chances, especially as the former president leads in several surveys.
In conclusion, Kennedy’s vice presidential announcement and potential choice of Aaron Rodgers add further intrigue to an already unconventional and closely watched independent campaign, with implications for the 2024 presidential race dynamics.
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