Independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr., 70, has revealed New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers and former Minnesota Governor Jesse Ventura as his top picks for vice-presidential running mate. Kennedy shared his selection with The New York Times, indicating that both people have “welcomed” his outreach.
A representative for Kennedy’s campaign later confirmed on Tuesday, March 12, 2024, that Rodgers and Ventura were indeed among Kennedy’s preferred choices for the vice-presidential role, though more specifics were not provided. This announcement has ignited widespread interest, showcasing Kennedy’s novel tactics in his independent bid for the presidency.
Further broadening his search for a running mate, Kennedy approached former Democratic Representative Tulsi Gabbard of Hawaii, Senator Rand Paul (R-Ky.), and Andrew Yang, a 2020 presidential contender and 2021 New York mayoral candidate. However, reports indicate that they have declined his propositions.
Aaron Rodgers, 40, renowned for his 18 seasons with the Green Bay Packers, was moved to the Jets before the 2023 season. His New York debut was halted by a ruptured left Achilles tendon during his first game, resulting in his absence for the season’s remainder.
Rodgers, a proponent of Kennedy’s campaign, has been endorsing #kennedy2024 on social platforms since April 2023. A recent photograph posted by Kennedy features the two hiking, highlighting Rodgers’ ongoing recovery.
In the final year of a two-year, $75 million contract with the Jets, Rodgers faces a dilemma on how a potential vice-presidential run might impact his professional football career. Both he and Kennedy have publicly expressed skepticism about vaccines, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Jesse Ventura, 72, is known for his tenure as Minnesota’s governor from 1999 to 2003 under the Reform Party before switching to the Independence Party of Minnesota. He is celebrated for his surprise victory in the gubernatorial race. Kennedy noted ongoing communications with Ventura, especially after Ventura introduced him at a campaign event in Arizona last month.
Despite Kennedy’s perceived long odds in the presidential race, he currently garners 15% support in a three-way contest, according to an average of polls by RealClearPolitics. This level of support is significant for a third-party candidate. Kennedy’s campaign has achieved ballot access in four states: Hawaii, Nevada, New Hampshire, and Utah, with ongoing efforts in key battleground states.
As the political landscape shifts, Kennedy’s campaign strategies reflect his intent to challenge the conventional two-party system, drawing attention to his candidacy’s potential impact on the broader electoral process.