RFK Jr.'s Strategy: Endorsement for Cabinet Spot Swap Meet
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. tried to cozy up to Vice President Kamala Harris with the promise of an endorsement, only to be left ghosted by the VP and her team.
In his quest for political relevance, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. reached out to Vice President Kamala Harris with hopes of discussing a potential role in her administration in exchange for his endorsement. However, Harris and her team showed less interest than a cat at a dog show, leaving Kennedy to lament what he called a 'strategic mistake.' Despite the cold shoulder, Kennedy presses on, holding campaign events and keeping an eye open for any opportunity to serve in a 'unity government,' proving once again that politics makes for the strangest of bedfellows—or in this case, none at all.
Kennedy, known for his vocal opinions on various public issues, sought a meeting with Harris to explore opportunities for collaboration. His proposal was straightforward: he would throw his support behind Harris if she added him to her team. But the endeavor hit a roadblock as Harris and her advisers showcased a masterclass in indifference.
The proposal's cold reception did not stop Kennedy from reaching out to others. The campaign didn't discriminate in its inclusive approach, making it clear that Kennedy was open to dialogue with leaders from both sides of the political spectrum. His team even confirmed that discussions aimed at forming a 'unity government' were ongoing. After all, why settle for one party's rejection when you can aim for bipartisan indifference?
In fact, this wasn't Kennedy's first attempt at negotiating a place in a political administration. He had previously met with former President Donald Trump at the Republican National Convention. The discussion revolved around a potential role in a prospective Trump administration, should Kennedy endorse him. Apparently, bipartisan political maneuvering is no stranger to Kennedy's playbook.
While Harris's team dodged his invitation, Kennedy wasn't shy about his disappointment. He criticized the sans-meeting stance as a significant misstep. To him, the refusal was more than a mere scheduling conflict; it was a missed strategic opportunity in the grand chess game of politics.
Kennedy's campaign continues to maneuver through the labyrinth of ballot access. His public engagements and media appearances are ongoing as he seeks to make inroads and gather support. However, he remains pragmatic about his future, ready to drop out of the race if another path to public service presents itself. Who wouldn't be open to a good backup plan?
Kennedy's overtures to the Harris campaign were first reported by The Washington Post, giving the saga its initial spotlight. This effort to establish connections across party lines has set tongues wagging on both sides of the aisle, with some Democrats dubbing him a 'spoiler.' This label isn't entirely unmerited, given his associations with GOP megadonor Timothy Mellon.
Mellon’s influence has not gone unnoticed, causing Democrats to contest Kennedy’s ballot access in multiple states. The whispers that his candidacy might siphon votes away from primary candidates have only added fuel to the politically charged atmosphere surrounding his campaign. It's as if Kennedy's campaign has turned into the Thanksgiving dinner everyone dreads—where politically charged debates are guaranteed, but without the benefit of pie.
Meanwhile, the Harris campaign has maintained a striking silence. When contacted by multiple news outlets—CNN, CBS News, and the New York Post among them—Harris's team decided not to comment. It appears they are taking the 'silence is golden' adage very seriously.
As Kennedy forges ahead, his willingness to traverse political boundaries to secure a role—be it under Harris, Trump, or a 'unity government' of any kind—suggests that he is exploring various avenues for political relevance. Despite setbacks, he continues to seek opportunities through his negotiations across the political spectrum. His determination provides an interesting commentary on the unpredictable nature of political alliances. Clearly, Kennedy is ready to work with anyone who has a phone and a pen, testing the waters in every political pond.