In a surprising turn of events, the Kennedy family, including more than a dozen members, officially endorsed President Joe Biden's reelection bid, effectively distancing themselves from Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s independent run for office. Despite slim chances of victory, RFK Jr.'s campaign has the potential to siphon votes away from Biden as a third-party candidate with a legendary Democratic surname.

Kerry Kennedy, RFK Jr.'s sister, voiced the family's resounding support for Biden, stating that they firmly believe reelecting him and Vice President Kamala Harris for four more years is the best way forward for America. Although she did not directly mention her brother's presidential bid, Kerry emphasized that there are only two candidates with any realistic chance of winning the 2024 race, listing Biden's policy achievements.

Omitting any reference to RFK Jr.'s campaign, Biden also refrained from acknowledging the familial divide, but highlighted the stark choice between himself and his Republican opponent, former President Donald Trump. Kerry Kennedy branded Trump as an "antidemocratic" candidate who spreads dangerous conspiracy theories on topics such as climate change, vaccines, windmills, and voter fraud. She further speculated that her father, Robert F. Kennedy Sr., a former attorney general, senator, and Democratic presidential candidate assassinated in 1968, would have been appalled by Trump.

Following the endorsement, members of the Kennedy family are reportedly hitting the streets and making phone calls to rally support for Biden. This involvement in Democratic politics aligns with the family's long-standing commitment to the party, with several prominent members already expressing their criticism of RFK Jr.'s candidacy, particularly regarding his promotion of baseless vaccine-related conspiracy theories.

When asked for comment, RFK Jr.'s campaign referred to his social media statement acknowledging the support and involvement of "many" of his family members in his campaign. Kennedy had previously sparked controversy within his family when a political action committee supporting his bid ran a Super Bowl ad inspired by his uncle's 1960 presidential campaign, which he later apologized for.

While focusing on reelecting Biden, the Kennedy family also expressed their admiration for his affinity with their political lineage, particularly Robert F. Kennedy Sr.'s career, which served as Biden's inspiration to enter politics as a young man. Acknowledging the endorsement, Biden revealed his deep honor and shared a personal connection, describing RFK Sr. as one of his heroes and referencing a bust of him next to his desk in the Oval Office, alongside a bust of Martin Luther King Jr.

This endorsement from the Kennedy family provides crucial support to Biden's reelection campaign, as he garners backing from one of America's most prominent Democratic dynasties. However, the potential impact of RFK Jr.'s independent run cannot be overlooked, as his familial name and political aspirations could influence the outcome of the upcoming election.