The selection of Nicole Shanahan as RFK Jr.’s progressive VP may impact Biden’s re-election chances
President Biden is struggling to improve in the polls, and Democrats are increasingly concerned that third-party candidates could swing the election in favor of former President Donald Trump.
According to RealClearPolitics polling averages, Trump currently holds a popular vote lead of 1.7% in a hypothetical one-on-one rematch.
However, Trump’s lead increases to 2.3% in a five-way race that includes additional candidates like Green Party candidate Jill Stein and independents Cornel West and Robert F. Kennedy Jr.
Among these candidates, Kennedy is seen as the biggest potential spoiler, garnering an average of 9.9% of the overall vote.
A recent Harvard/Harris poll showed that Kennedy commanded up to 15% of the electorate, while Stein and West polled at no more than 2% each.
Initially appealing to independents and fringe Republicans with his anti-vax message, Kennedy’s support has started to shift from Democrats concerned about Biden’s age, infirmity, and border issues as Trump secured the GOP nomination.
On Tuesday, Kennedy made a strategic move by naming Nicole Shanahan, a well-known California attorney and tech investor, as his running mate.
Shanahan, a self-proclaimed progressive, is known for her radical-left leanings and her past contributions to various causes and candidates.
She has supported initiatives that have faced criticism for their impact on communities and law enforcement.
Shanahan’s financial backing and connections could potentially sway the election in favor of Kennedy and Trump, as they aim to secure a presence on the ballot in all 50 states.
This move has raised concerns among Democratic strategists, who have launched efforts to denigrate RFK Jr. and his campaign.
Despite the opposition, Kennedy’s chances of winning are slim. However, with Shanahan’s resources, Biden’s chances are also at risk.
Democratic efforts to discredit Kennedy have intensified, with claims of illegal coordination and negative portrayals of the candidate.
Despite the challenges, Kennedy and Shanahan continue to push forward in their campaign, with potential implications for the upcoming election.
Paul du Quenoy is president of the Palm Beach Freedom Institute.
