Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s rising profile has sparked speculation about his potential to share a debate stage with President Biden and Donald Trump. While it’s uncertain if Kennedy will qualify for a televised forum, his candidacy has gained attention due to discontent with the two major parties’ standard-bearers. As an independent candidate with access to funds, Kennedy’s participation could impact the presidential race.
To qualify for the debate stage, Kennedy needs to consistently poll at 15% or higher and secure ballot access in most states. His campaign has made it clear that he wants to participate in the debates, calling for an open exchange of ideas and critique of existing policies. Kennedy believes that the American public deserves to envision a November election beyond a two-party rematch.
RFK Jr. (Credits: NBC News)
However, Biden and Trump have expressed reluctance about debating Kennedy, viewing him as a menace. They worry that his participation could raise his profile and potentially harm their campaigns. Kennedy’s family name recognition and access to considerable funds make him a wild card in the race.
The first presidential debate is scheduled for September 16 in Texas, followed by a vice presidential debate on September 25 in Pennsylvania. Two more debates are slated for October in Virginia and Utah. Kennedy has made it clear that he wants to participate, but it’s uncertain if he will meet the necessary criteria.
Some strategists believe Biden has an edge over his two rivals due to Trump’s ongoing legal issues and questions about Kennedy’s viability. However, Trump’s campaign has expressed willingness to debate Kennedy, despite calling him a “Radical Left Liberal” who hurts Biden’s chances. Kennedy’s allies argue that Trump might engage with him on stage, despite legal complications.
Democrats, on the other hand, are less enthusiastic about Kennedy’s participation, viewing him as a conspiracy theorist who takes money from Trump donors. The Democratic National Committee might advise Biden against debating Kennedy, who they see as a spoiler candidate.
Kennedy has criticized the DNC for orchestrating a biased primary and claims that he is the true spoiler, as Biden cannot beat Trump in a three-way contest. Democrats have dismissed Kennedy’s claims as a media stunt to distract from his long-shot effort.
Biden and Trump (Credits: Mediaite)
Presidential debate scholars like Aaron Kall are skeptical about Kennedy qualifying through the Commission on Presidential Debates (CPD), which requires a 15% threshold in qualified polls and ballot access in enough states to have a mathematical chance of securing an Electoral College majority.
The Trump campaign has also expressed frustration with the CPD’s September start date and called for other networks to host debates outside of the traditional schedule. This could potentially allow Kennedy to participate, but Trump and Biden would need to negotiate.
Whether or not Kennedy qualifies for the debate stage, his candidacy has already made a remarkable impact on the presidential race. His participation could lead to a more interesting and unpredictable debate, but it’s uncertain if he will meet the necessary criteria.
