(source-wsj.com_.jpg)
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. addressed the backlash from his wife and other members of the Kennedy family after he endorsed former President Donald Trump. During an appearance on “Fox News Sunday,” Kennedy responded to questions from host Shannon Bream about the public criticism he received, particularly from his siblings.
Kennedy Responds to Family Disapproval
Bream referenced a letter that Kennedy’s siblings released on Friday, condemning his endorsement of Trump. In response, Kennedy acknowledged his family’s deep-rooted ties to the Democratic Party and expressed understanding of their concerns. “You know, my family is at the center of the Democratic Party. I have members of my family that are working for the Biden administration. Biden has a bust of my father behind him at the Oval Office, and he’s been a family friend for many years,” Kennedy explained.
He continued by expressing his love for his family, despite their differing political views. “I understand that they’re troubled by my decisions. I love my family. I feel like we were raised in a milieu where we were encouraged to debate each other and debate ferociously and passionately about things and still love each other,” Kennedy said. He emphasized that his family members are free to hold their own positions on political issues, just as he is. “There are many, many members of my family working at my campaign and who are supporting me,” he added, indicating that the family is not monolithic in its political stance.
Kennedy Family’s Public Rebuke
The public rift within the Kennedy family became more evident with the letter signed by five of Kennedy’s siblings. In the letter, they expressed their continued support for Vice President Kamala Harris and criticized Kennedy’s endorsement of Trump, framing it as a betrayal of the family’s values.
“We want an America filled with hope and bound together by a shared vision of a brighter future, a future defined by individual freedom, economic promise, and national pride,” the statement from his siblings read. They voiced their belief in the leadership of Harris and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, whom Harris had chosen as her running mate.
The letter also conveyed a deep sense of disappointment in Kennedy’s decision. “Our brother Bobby’s decision to endorse Trump is a betrayal of the values that our father and our family hold most dear. It is a sad ending to a sad story,” the statement concluded.
The contrast between Kennedy’s endorsement and the values his family has traditionally upheld has caused a significant public split, with members of the Kennedy family openly disagreeing with his political choices. Despite the controversy, Kennedy has maintained his stance, emphasizing his right to his own political opinions and the ongoing support he receives from other family members involved in his campaign.
The situation highlights the challenges of navigating family loyalty and personal convictions in the highly charged atmosphere of American politics, especially when the family in question is one as historically significant as the Kennedys.
Also Read : The Enterprise world