Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Blocked from New York Presidential Ballot
Failed Residency Claims Led to Kennedy’s Disqualification
Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a well-known independent candidate in the upcoming presidential election, was blocked from appearing on the New York ballot due to a judge’s ruling on Monday. Kennedy’s status was contested due to incorrect residency declarations.
This ruling was championed by New York Justice Christina Ryba from Albany, who established that Kennedy’s official residence was falsely claimed to be in Katonah, N.Y., on his nominating petition. Kennedy, who is renting a spare bedroom in the New York address, notably purchased a home in California in 2021 following his marriage to Hollywood actress Cheryl Hines. His official residency thus fell under question.
Kennedy-Sehanhan Ticket Invalidated
Ryba found the nominating petition, featuring Kennedy and running mate Nicole Shanahan, to be invalid due to the incorrect residency claim and has ordered that the New York State Board of Elections exclude the Kennedy-Shanahan ticket for the 2024 ballot.
In her 34-page post-trial decision, Ryba explained that there was “clear and convincing credible evidence” to confirm that Kennedy assumed the New York address to be a ‘sham’ for maintaining his voter registration and fulfilling his political aspirations.
Mysterious New York ‘Residence’
Despite Kennedy claiming the New York residence to be his since May 2023, his family or pets do not reside there. The candidate testified to sleeping there only once in the recent past. A neighbor with 35 years of residence in the area confirmed that he’s never spotted Kennedy in the declared home.
Kennedy’s registrations suggest he remains a registered voter in New York without any updates made after his move to California. He defended his decision, citing his attachment to New York.
Democratic Involvement and Kennedy’s Response
The lawsuit was instigated by three New York citizens supported by the Democratic-aligned political action committee, Clear Choice. Kennedy, unhappy with the ruling, lashed out at the Democrats for displaying a “contempt for democracy”. He vowed to appeal.
Despite Kennedy’s popularity being limited to the single-digits in national polls, Democrats have attacked him as a “spoiler candidate” who may be assisting Donald Trump. Kennedy’s persistence with the presidential bid despite the ruling and ongoing criticism can potentially shake up the battleground states in the election.
The DNC Speaks Out
The Democratic National Committee has come out strongly against Kennedy, accusing him of recklessness and defiance in following rules. DNC spokesperson criticised Kennedy, stating that he was willing to be a spoiler in the upcoming election, thereby indirectly aiding Donald Trump.
The Appeal Awaits
As Kennedy plans to appeal the decision, the impact and ramifications of the ruling will be watched keenly as it could potentially shape the policies and strategies of other candidates and influence the electoral landscape in the coming months.
