RFK Jr.’s running mate considers potential alliance with Trump

Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s presidential campaign appears to be in a precarious position, with expenditures outpacing donations. This financial strain is compounded by efforts to gain access to ballots across the nation.

Recent filings with the Federal Election Commission (FEC) reveal that Kennedy’s campaign is struggling with a financial imbalance. Running as an independent candidate, he faces significant challenges both in fundraising and in garnering the necessary votes.

Nicole Shanahan, Kennedy’s running mate, highlighted the campaign’s dire circumstances during her discussion on the podcast Impact Theory. She stated, “There are two options we’re considering. One is to establish a new party, but this approach risks paving the way for a potential Kamala Harris and Walz presidency due to vote-splitting with Trump. Alternatively, we could withdraw now and align with Donald Trump.”

This statement points to severe uncertainty within the campaign as Shanahan’s remarks raise questions about their strategy moving forward. Observers acknowledge the uphill battle ahead for both Kennedy and Shanahan in their quest for traction in the upcoming election.

Jeff Hays, who has contributed over $300,000 to the campaign, expressed his dismay to ABC News, noting that Shanahan’s comments have “absolutely killed fundraising.” He has since decided to cancel a planned fundraising event, which underscores the growing concerns among financial backers.

The urgency of their situation has intensified as the election date draws near. Kennedy’s campaign reported having $3.9 million in cash by the end of last month, but with $3.4 million already owed, this signals significant financial vulnerability as November approaches.

In July alone, per FEC data, the campaign spent over $7 million but only raised approximately $5.6 million, with Shanahan contributing around $2.5 million of that total. Her status as one of the biggest donors emphasizes the reliance the campaign has placed on her financial support.

To mitigate expenses, Kennedy has reduced the number of in-person rally events, preferring online engagements through platforms like TikTok and X. As the main party candidates—Donald Trump and Kamala Harris—continue to garner substantial financial support, the challenge for Kennedy to maintain his status as a viable candidate grows increasingly difficult.

Challenges to Kennedy’s ballot access are mounting, particularly in states like New York, where he faced accusations regarding the legitimacy of his filing address, leading to court rulings against him. Similar hurdles are anticipated in states such as Georgia.

Additionally, Kennedy’s polling numbers indicate increasing unfavorability, driven by resurfacing controversial anecdotes from his past. Earlier this year, he disclosed unusual medical findings and personal misadventures that have drawn media attention.

As time pressures mount and resources dwindle, speculation suggests Kennedy has engaged in discussions with both Trump and Harris about possibly securing a cabinet position in exchange for his endorsement. However, a spokesperson for Harris dismissed the notion of such negotiations.

Kennedy has conveyed his willingness to communicate with leaders of any political party to advance his goals, which include environmental reforms and the protection of free speech. However, Shanahan emphasized that any collaboration with Trump would require a considerable commitment of authority to ensure Kennedy’s efficacy.