Silicon Valley investor Nicole Shanahan announced that she has donated $8 million to Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s independent presidential campaign. This brings her total contribution to $10 million, not including the $4 million she previously gave to a super PAC backing Mr. Kennedy. Some have speculated that Mr. Kennedy chose Ms. Shanahan as his running mate for her monetary support, prompting laughter from the crowd at a fundraising event in Nashville where she made the announcement.
The event at the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville featured comedians such as Russell Brand, Rob Schneider, and Jim Breuer, who praised Mr. Kennedy but also criticized Covid vaccinations, Dr. Anthony S. Fauci, the mainstream media, and President Biden. Ms. Shanahan’s personal wealth has been crucial for Mr. Kennedy’s campaign, as she has provided a financial lifeline to help them gain ballot access in all 50 states. This is particularly challenging due to expected legal challenges from the Democratic Party and its allies.
On the same day of Ms. Shanahan’s announcement, it was revealed that President Biden and former President Donald Trump had agreed to two debates, excluding the traditional Commission on Presidential Debates. Both candidates seem to be trying to keep Mr. Kennedy off the debate stage, with Mr. Biden expressing his terms for the debates and Mr. Trump accepting them. However, Mr. Kennedy may still qualify for the CNN debate, as he needs to show at least 15 percent support in four approved national polls between March 13 and June 20, and he already has two polls showing him above that threshold.
In order to qualify for the CNN debate, Mr. Kennedy must also meet the requirements to potentially win the 270 Electoral College votes needed to be elected president. Currently on the ballot in five states with a total of 84 electoral votes, Mr. Kennedy’s campaign has five weeks to place him on more state ballots before the deadline to qualify for the debate. Despite efforts from both Mr. Biden and Mr. Trump to exclude him from the stage, Mr. Kennedy criticized their actions, stating that keeping viable candidates off the debate stage undermines democracy.
Ms. Shanahan’s significant financial contributions have helped to sustain Mr. Kennedy’s campaign, particularly as they work to secure ballot access in all 50 states. This costly endeavor is especially challenging due to expected legal challenges from the Democratic Party and its allies. With Ms. Shanahan’s support, Mr. Kennedy has been able to continue his campaign, which aims to qualify for the upcoming debates and gain enough support to potentially win the presidency.
