1. Donald Trump dismissed the notion of debating RFK Jr., calling him “not a serious candidate.”
2. Trump claimed to know little about Kennedy despite stepping up his attacks on him.
3. The possibility of a debate between Trump and Kennedy is uncertain due to the involvement of the Commission on Presidential Debates and the history of third-party candidates in presidential debates.
Donald Trump dismissed the idea of debating long-shot presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr., calling him “not a serious candidate.” Despite Trump’s claims of knowing little about Kennedy, he has intensified his attacks on him. Early polling suggests that Kennedy’s inclusion in the race hurts Trump, with Biden gaining a lead in some scenarios. Kennedy has been appealing to Trump voters by voicing support for recalling the Moderna COVID-19 shot and showing sympathy for those involved in the Capitol riot.
The former president’s criticism of Kennedy comes after the latter shifted towards right-wing ideologies despite his initial rise as an environmentalist. Kennedy, now running as an independent, has gained interest from those aligning with MAGA and conservative viewpoints. Trump’s refusal to debate Kennedy may not solely be his decision, as the Commission on Presidential Debates has strict criteria for allowing third-party candidates to participate. Trump and his allies have been critical of the debate commission, with some threatening to hold debates without their involvement.
Although there is speculation about whether a debate between Trump and Biden will happen, the debates hold importance in the American political calendar. With millions of Americans voting before Election Day, the debates remain one of the most-watched events of an election year, providing voters with valuable insights into the candidates’ policies and positions.