A judge ruled on Monday that independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s name should not appear on New York’s ballot due to falsely claiming a New York residence on nominating petitions while living in California. The ruling, made by Judge Christina Ryba, stated that the rented bedroom Kennedy claimed as his residence in New York was not a legitimate address but rather a 'sham' address used for voter registration purposes.
Ryba's decision was based on evidence showing a pattern of Kennedy borrowing addresses from friends and relatives to maintain his voter registration in New York while residing in California with his wife, actor Cheryl Hines. The judge deemed Kennedy's testimony regarding his New York residency as improbable and preposterous, highlighting inconsistencies in his claims.
Clear Choice Action, a Democrat-aligned political action committee, supported the legal challenge against Kennedy, accusing him of intentionally misleading election officials and betraying voters’ trust. Kennedy, who led a New York-based environmental group and has familial ties to the state, argued that he has lifelong connections to New York and intends to return.
Despite Kennedy's assertions, the judge emphasized the lack of physical presence at the address he claimed as his residence in New York. Kennedy's campaign, which has faced challenges and lawsuits in multiple states, could be impacted by his removal from the New York ballot.
While Kennedy plans to appeal the ruling, the decision could have broader implications for his candidacy in other states where he listed the same address. The 70-year-old candidate, known for his famous name and loyal base, has the potential to influence the presidential race as an independent candidate.
