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 In a historic declaration of independence from the Democratic Party, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. made an announcement. On Monday he announced he is ending his campaign for the Democratic presidential nomination. Instead, he is embarking on an independent bid aimed at bridging the divide in American politics.

Kennedy believes that the gap between the Democrats and Republicans is engineered by a corrupt establishment.

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With a passionate crowd of over 1,000 supporters gathered before the iconic backdrop of where the Declaration of Independence was signed, Kennedy boldly proclaimed, "I intend to wrest the reins of power from both parties and give it back to the American people." He likened the political landscape to teenagers quarreling over a runaway car's steering wheel, all the while following a GPS dictated by lobbyists.

The nephew of former President John F. Kennedy and son of former U.S. Attorney General Robert F. Kennedy was originally running as a presidential candidate for the 2024 Democratic nomination.

The campaign had struggled to gain traction within the Democratic primary, despite the desire among voters for an alternative to President Joe Biden. 

Supporters in attendance donned a wide array of attire, from suits and ties to homemade Kennedy-themed T-shirts, hats, and buttons. One ardent supporter even sported a custom-made cape bearing the words, "I want Camelot," invoking the legendary Kennedy dynasty.

Independent bid

Addressing the cynicism surrounding his independent candidacy, Kennedy asserted, "There have been anti-establishment candidates before, but none of them who actually understand how to get the job done. This time, the independent is going to win."

He cited a recent Gallup survey that revealed an all-time high of 63% of Americans believing that a "third major party is needed" due to the perceived ineffectiveness of both Republicans and Democrats.

Despite these sentiments, Kennedy faces considerable hurdles. The most successful independent candidate of the last century, Ross Perot, garnered only 19% of the popular vote in 1992. And received zero Electoral College votes. 

The US system favors candidates from the two major parties, leaving Democrats concerned that Kennedy's presence on the ballot might undermine Biden's chances.

Kennedy, however, had a different perspective, stating, "My intention is to spoil it for both of them." He underscored that his candidacy stemmed from a painful departure from his family's long-standing allegiance to the Democratic Party, which includes prominent figures such as his uncles, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.

The extended Kennedy family has largely criticized his campaign.

He emphasized that breaking free from party ties was essential to counter the tribalism dominating contemporary politics. Kennedy initially launched his campaign in Boston, a city synonymous with his family's legacy, but chose Independence Hall as the backdrop for his official announcement.

Kennedy's platform is centered around declaring independence from corporate influence, Wall Street, polluters, and divisive politics. In his address, he drew parallels with former President Donald Trump, emphasizing his intention to distance himself from the "mercenary media" that reinforces corporate interests.

To Heal a Political Divide

Kennedy's vision, he stated, transcends traditional political labels: "It’s going to be very hard for people to tell if my administration is right or left. Is it right or left to support small farms? Is it right or left to pull our country back from the brink of war with Russia? Is it right or left to have a totally secure electoral system where we know every vote will count? As long as we’re locked in these habitual debates, the two parties are often blind to common sense solutions."

Kennedy also criticized the media for downplaying his prospects and exacerbating political division. His declaration of independence from "any party" also put to rest speculation about affiliating with the Libertarian Party or the Green Party.

His announcement increased the potential for a crowded ballot next November. Included in the Presidential contenders will be two major party candidates, established third-party wannabes, and well-known independents like Kennedy and philosopher Cornel West.

Nevertheless, securing ballot access in all 50 states without party support remains a formidable challenge. More than a year remains until Election Day. And an already contentious political landscape just got a little more complex.