Independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. launched pointed attacks against former President Donald Trump at the Libertarian Party’s national convention. Kennedy criticized Trump for his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, accusing him of allowing science-free social distancing mandates that restricted civil liberties. Kennedy also criticized Trump for failing to intervene on behalf of Julian Assange and Edward Snowden, promising to pardon Snowden and drop charges against Assange if elected.
Kennedy’s criticisms of Trump come as both candidates seek to make inroads with libertarian voters. Trump had previously attacked Kennedy as a “radical” and a “Democrat Plant” who could help ensure Biden’s re-election by taking votes from the GOP. Despite this, Trump and Kennedy have agreed to a debate, with Trump calling Kennedy a “sharper” and “more intelligent” version of Biden. The debate is scheduled to be disrupted by protesters calling for a one-on-one debate between Trump and Kennedy.
During his speech, Kennedy taunted Trump over the debate, challenging him to have the “courage” to talk about the issues. Trump’s team unleashed its own attack on Kennedy, ordering a mobile billboard to drive around the convention displaying attack ads calling Kennedy a “radical” and highlighting his left-wing policy prescriptions. Despite these attacks, Kennedy remains steadfast in his criticisms of Trump, particularly in relation to civil liberties and foreign policy issues.
Kennedy’s strong stance against Trump marks a departure from his previous criticisms of President Biden. While Kennedy had reserved his harshest rhetoric for Biden, he now appears to be focusing on taking on Trump directly. Trump is set to address delegates at the convention, though his speech is expected to be met with protestors who will demand a one-on-one debate with Kennedy. The incumbent’s campaign has stipulated that only Biden and Trump will be allowed to participate in official debates, excluding third-party candidates like Kennedy.
Both Trump and Kennedy are vying for the support of libertarian voters, with Trump seeking to highlight Kennedy’s left-wing policy prescriptions to paint him as a “radical.” Despite this, Kennedy remains determined to challenge Trump on issues such as civil liberties, foreign policy, and government transparency. As the campaign heats up, Kennedy’s willingness to directly challenge Trump could impact the Presidential race and the support of libertarian voters in the upcoming election.
