Kennedy Family Criticizes RFK Jr. for Endorsing Trump, Calling It a Betrayal

Several prominent members of the Kennedy family have openly condemned their brother, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., after he suspended his independent presidential campaign and endorsed former President Donald Trump. The move has sparked outrage among his siblings, who view it as a stark departure from the family’s long-standing Democratic legacy.

Kerry Kennedy, RFK Jr.’s sister and a well-known human rights lawyer, was particularly vocal in her criticism.

“I am outraged and disgusted by my brother’s obscene embrace of Donald Trump,” she said during an appearance on MSNBC, addding that she intends to “disassociate” herself from her brother, accusing him of tarnishing their father’s memory.

The late Robert F. Kennedy, who was assassinated while running for president in 1968, has been a revered figure within the family, known for his commitment to justice and equality. Kerry believes that her father would have strongly opposed Trump and the values he represents.

Max Kennedy, another of RFK Jr.’s siblings, echoed these sentiments in an op-ed published in the Los Angeles Times. He described his brother’s endorsement of Trump as a “hollow grab for power” and a betrayal of the principles their father stood for. Despite his harsh criticism, Max expressed that he still loves his brother but is heartbroken by his actions.

Five of RFK Jr.’s siblings, including Kathleen Kennedy Townsend, Courtney Kennedy, Chris Kennedy, and Rory Kennedy, issued a joint statement condemning his decision and endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris for president. They described RFK Jr.’s endorsement of Trump as “a betrayal of the values that our father and our family hold most dear.”

Despite the family rift, RFK Jr. defended his decision in an interview with Fox News, emphasizing that he still loves his family and respects their right to disagree. He also indicated that several family members support his campaign and that he plans to continue actively campaigning alongside Trump.

The Kennedy family, known for their strong ties to the Democratic Party, had previously endorsed President Joe Biden. Kerry Kennedy stressed that almost every Kennedy grandchild supported Biden, suggesting that their father would have been horrified by Trump’s actions as president.

With input from The Independent and the Daily Beast.