Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has successfully gathered enough signatures to be placed on the presidential ballot in Texas as an independent candidate for the 2024 election. With more than double the required amount of signatures collected in just two months, RFK Jr. is aiming to secure a spot on the ballot in all 50 states. So far, he has officially made the ballot in six states and claims to have enough signatures in several others, totaling 14 states in which he may appear on the ballot.
Kennedy, aged 70, is currently polling higher than any third-party candidate in decades, consistently in the double digits in various polls. A Marist poll conducted in March showed him at 15% in Texas, compared to Trump’s 48% and Biden’s 36%. His popularity as a third-party candidate may have consequential impact in swing states come November, as current polls show Biden and Trump in a close race overall. Trump’s attacks on RFK Jr. may indicate concerns about potential votes being taken away from him.
RFK Jr. has faced criticism and controversy as well, particularly regarding his stance on important issues such as abortion. His running mate, Nicole Shanahan, contradicted his statement supporting abortion at any time during pregnancy, claiming that he actually believes in limits on abortion. Additionally, Kennedy has attempted to directly challenge Biden and Trump by proposing a joint national poll to determine which candidate should drop out and challenging Trump to a debate at the Libertarian Convention in May.
Kennedy’s campaign has focused on meeting the stringent ballot requirements set by different states, and securing his position in various polls as a viable third-party candidate. Despite Trump’s attacks and criticism from former Republicans, RFK Jr. continues to push forward with his campaign, aiming to provide voters with an alternative option in the 2024 election. However, both Biden and Trump have thus far declined to engage with Kennedy’s proposed challenges and ideas.
RFK Jr.’s campaign has made significant progress in securing spots on the ballot in multiple states, with a goal to be listed in all 50 states for the upcoming election. His polling numbers as a third-party candidate have been unprecedented in recent years, garnering support in several key states. Despite facing criticism and controversy, particularly regarding his stance on abortion, RFK Jr. continues to push forward with his campaign and challenge Biden and Trump directly. As the election approaches, his presence on the ballot may significantly impact the race between the two major parties.
