Carlos Rodriguez
Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s forthcoming revelation of his running mate is poised to stir up the landscape of the 2024 presidential race, potentially injecting his campaign with both a financial boon and substantial momentum as he endeavors to secure spots on more state ballots.
Kennedy’s decision to disclose his vice-presidential selection next Tuesday underscores the enduring nature of his candidacy, a persistence that some Democrats had anticipated would wane by now. By introducing a running mate, the independent candidate satisfies a crucial requirement in approximately two dozen states for ballot inclusion, a move expected to draw heightened attention to his bid for the presidency.
Tony Lyons, co-founder of Kennedy’s American Values super PAC, remarked in an interview with The Hill this week, “Having a vice president on the ticket shows that he’s moving forward. Voters then get to see that he’s very serious about becoming president.”
The quest for Kennedy’s vice president has garnered notice for its unconventional contenders. While speculation swirls around Nicole Shanahan, a lawyer and significant donor, other names have been privately considered, eliciting mixed reactions.
Kennedy has openly discussed various individuals. Previously, he mentioned NFL star Aaron Rodgers, who shares his skepticism toward public health vaccination initiatives. However, Rodgers’ controversial remarks regarding the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting prompted a shift in focus. Kennedy has also expressed interest in figures such as wrestler and former Minnesota Governor Jesse Ventura, former Hawaii Representative Tulsi Gabbard, and tech entrepreneur Andrew Yang, each known for their unconventional perspectives.
As Kennedy’s event in Oakland, Calif., approaches, Shanahan emerges as a leading contender. The West Coast lawyer, with strong ties to Silicon Valley and as the former spouse of Google co-founder Sergey Brin, could potentially infuse additional funds into Kennedy’s ballot access efforts.
Securing spots on numerous state ballots can be financially burdensome, often impeding a candidate’s traction despite favorable polling and messaging. Acknowledging the financial challenge, a source familiar with Kennedy’s strategy noted the significant resources required to challenge the Democratic and Republican parties. President Biden, as the incumbent, boasts a substantial war chest, further complicating Kennedy’s financial competition.
Bringing Shanahan aboard as his running mate may help alleviate financial concerns. While Kennedy maintains that Shanahan’s financial resources are not the primary factor in her consideration, her proximity to wealth could offer strategic advantages. Furthermore, the announcement of a vice president is expected to galvanize donors, regardless of the final selection.
Despite Kennedy’s admiration for several potential running mates, he has remained tight-lipped about his ultimate choice. Campaign manager Amaryllis Fox expressed enthusiasm for Kennedy’s decision without divulging specifics.
Kennedy’s decision to reveal his running mate earlier in the campaign mirrors successful strategies employed by past candidates. However, some strategists caution that Kennedy faces significant challenges in competing against Biden and Trump. Despite qualifying for several states, Kennedy’s campaign aims to secure ballot access across the nation before the fall.
Optimism within Kennedy’s camp stems from widespread dissatisfaction with both major party candidates, with Kennedy supporters hoping to capitalize on this sentiment. While hurdles remain, Kennedy’s team remains hopeful that sufficient momentum, media attention, and funding could propel his candidacy to viability.
