Rep. Ro Khanna is expressing concern that Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s candidacy could potentially draw votes away from President Joe Biden, thereby benefiting former President Donald Trump in the upcoming election.
Rep. Ro Khanna (D-Calif.) has urged Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s running mate to step down, citing fears that the independent candidate’s presence on the ballot in swing states may result in a victory for Donald Trump over Joe Biden in the presidential race this November.
Ms. Shanahan, a lawyer, shared that she recently had a conversation with Mr. Khanna, during which he congratulated her on being selected as Mr. Kennedy’s running mate and offered words of encouragement for her candidacy.
“Clearly, Ro has altered his position under pressure from the party. I hope he recognizes the undemocratic nature of asking someone to withdraw from a race that empowers the American public to make their own choices,” Ms. Shanahan expressed on the social media platform X. “I am disappointed by the public nature of his letter to me. He could have reached out to me privately. My direct line is available to him.”
In response to the criticism, Mr. Khanna stated, “No one is suggesting that Nicole does not have the right to run, but it is in the spirit of democracy to try to persuade her to support Biden considering the stakes involved.”
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Mr. Kennedy expressed gratitude for Ms. Shanahan’s support. “I have always held Ro Khanna in high regard. His change of position in this matter is disheartening. It seems that the party has the ability to influence individuals of integrity to waver,” he remarked.
Financial filings indicate that she has made substantial contributions to Mr. Kennedy’s campaign and has previously supported both Mr. Khanna and President Biden.
Originally launching his presidential bid as a Democrat, Mr. Kennedy transitioned to an independent candidacy following challenges within the Democratic Party, which predominantly endorsed President Biden for re-election.
In March, Ms. Shanahan announced her departure from the Democratic Party, labeling herself as a “disillusioned Democrat.” She expressed concerns about the party’s leadership and priorities, emphasizing a need for change.
Ms. Shanahan criticized both major parties for failing to address crucial issues and pledged her support for causes such as sustainable farming and autism research.
Mr. Khanna argued that Ms. Shanahan’s beliefs align more closely with supporting President Biden rather than aiding Mr. Kennedy’s campaign.
“Considering the high stakes involved, her stance on regenerative agriculture, climate, and reproductive rights, how could she support a candidacy that would ultimately aid in the re-election of Donald Trump? I want to make the case to her that supporting Joe Biden would be a better choice,” he remarked during an interview on CNN.
He later emphasized that he believes President Biden still has a chance to win the election, but acknowledged that the presence of any third-party candidates could potentially benefit Donald Trump.
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