Republicans Favor Robert F. Kennedy Jr as Democrat Allies Urge Him to Drop Out
Recent polls reveal that Republicans have a more favorable opinion of Robert F. Kennedy Jr than Democrats do. As allies of Donald Trump pressure the independent presidential candidate to step down and endorse the former Republican president.
Kennedy’s popularity seems to be decreasing in recent polls as he struggles to define his political stance in a race altered by the exit of Democratic President Joe Biden and the nomination of Vice President Kamala Harris in his place. The race does not provide much leeway for Kennedy’s presence or exit to influence the election outcome significantly. Current polls do not explicitly show that Kennedy’s participation in the race notably impacts support for either major-party candidate.
Initially polling in double digits earlier this year, Kennedy’s support now lingers in the mid-single digits in recent surveys. It remains uncertain whether Kennedy would garner even that level of support in the general election, considering that third-party candidates often fail to match their early poll numbers when votes are cast.
Despite facing challenges, Kennedy is set to deliver a speech in Phoenix on Friday, addressing the current historical moment and his potential path forward following discussions within his campaign about the possibility of him withdrawing and supporting Trump.
Partisan Differences in Opinion
Recent sentiments toward Kennedy have been divided among Americans overall. A July AP-NORC poll conducted before Biden’s withdrawal from the race revealed an equal split between those who viewed Kennedy favorably and unfavorably. Republicans demonstrated a significantly more positive view of Kennedy compared to Democrats and independents. Those holding a favorable perception of Kennedy were also more inclined to view Trump positively than Harris.
Challenges for Kennedy
Kennedy’s appeal largely stemmed from being an option other than the anticipated Biden-Trump rematch. A Pew Research Center poll in July showed that about half of Kennedy’s supporters favor him because he is neither Biden nor Trump.
Furthermore, Harris’ ascension to the Democratic ticket seemed to deteriorate Kennedy’s prospects as an alternative candidate. An August Pew poll indicated that Harris gained support at Kennedy’s expense, particularly winning over some female and non-white voters who had previously considered Kennedy.
Familial Influences
Initially, Kennedy’s allure was centered around his family name and relations to renowned Kennedys. Polling conducted last summer highlighted that Democrats were inclined to support him due to the Kennedy name and family connections. Despite challenges, Kennedy’s appeal was boosted by John F. Kennedy’s enduring popularity across party lines and his successful presidency approval ratings.
In the midst of legal battles and ballot challenges, Kennedy’s potential exit from the race looms following a ruling in New York that invalidated his candidacy due to listing a false address on petitions. Despite appeals, Kennedy faces similar hurdles in other states.
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