Two prominent Democratic groups, MoveOn and Third Way, are shifting their focus to combat the electoral threat of Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s independent presidential campaign after No Labels abandoned its plans for a third-party unity ticket in 2024. Third Way’s Matt Bennett stated that Kennedy cannot be talked out of the race and is dangerous to vote for. MoveOn’s executive director, Rahna Epting, also emphasized that Kennedy’s run is nothing more than a spoiler, with no path to 270 Electoral College votes. Both groups have launched a coordinated mission to stop third-party candidates who could sway a close election.
The groups’ strategy will be focused on educating voters about Kennedy’s positions on issues like abortion bans and IVF, as well as highlighting his lack of a viable path against Biden and Trump. Third Way plans to utilize affiliated super PACs for independent expenditures like ad buys, while Epting mentioned that MoveOn has reassigned its team from the No Labels campaign to focus on the challenge posed by Kennedy. Democrats had breathed a sigh of relief when No Labels announced its inability to find a candidate, but the focus has now shifted to combatting Kennedy’s candidacy.
Bennett stressed the danger of anyone who divides the anti-Trump coalition, noting that Trump’s floor of support is solid while Biden’s is softer. While the impact of Kennedy’s candidacy on the election outcome remains unclear, polling suggests he could draw votes away from both Biden and Trump. Kennedy’s campaign has portrayed itself as transcending party labels and appealing to those who have moved away from the traditional right-left paradigm. However, Democrats are working to counter his candidacy and make voters aware of his potential impact on the election.
Former Missouri Gov. Jay Nixon, a Democrat and top official with No Labels, acknowledged the disappointment of their failed plans but emphasized the continued need for political unity and a rejection of divisive campaigns. He expressed concern that neither major candidate is presenting a vision of unity, leaving many voters without an exciting option. Nixon noted that many Americans are tired of the two-party system and stressed the importance of finding ways to move forward with the goal of promoting unity and addressing the challenges facing the country. Despite the setbacks, the focus remains on shaping a path forward that addresses the concerns of a majority of Americans.
