Nicole Shanahan, running mate of Robert F. Kennedy Jr., revealed in a recent podcast interview the possibility of the Kennedy campaign dropping out of the race and endorsing former President Donald Trump. Shanahan mentioned discussions between the Kennedy and Trump campaigns, focusing on the potential of Kennedy endorsing Trump in exchange for a role in Trump's administration.
Shanahan framed the decision around the impact on Vice President Kamala Harris' chances of winning in November, suggesting that Kennedy draws more votes from Trump than from Harris. She emphasized the choice between staying in the race or joining forces with Trump, highlighting concerns about a potential Harris-Walz presidency.
Shanahan also considered Trump's alignment with key issues of the Kennedy campaign, such as vaccine efficacy and safety, as factors in the decision-making process. Speculations arose about Kennedy potentially taking on a role as secretary of health and human services in a future Trump administration.
Despite Kennedy's lagging position in state and national polls, Shanahan expressed hope for a miraculous turnaround, including qualifying for the upcoming presidential debate. She attributed the campaign's challenges to opposition from Democratic groups, which she claimed had labeled them as spoilers.
While denying direct talks with Harris regarding an endorsement, Shanahan confirmed attempts by the Kennedy campaign to arrange a meeting with Harris to discuss potential collaboration. The revelation of these discussions surprised some Kennedy supporters, with one volunteer expressing feeling abandoned by the campaign.
In response to Shanahan's remarks, a DNC communications advisor reiterated their stance that Kennedy's campaign serves as a spoiler to benefit Trump. The ongoing developments suggest a complex and evolving landscape in the lead-up to the upcoming election.
