Friday, August 23, 2024

Bobby Jr. Backs Trump: 5 Reasons Why It Matters

Don't underestimate the significance of RFK Jr's endorsement of Trump today. Though this move was speculated about for quite some time, the fact that it has actually happened is big -- really big. Here are five reasons why:

1) Swing states.
RFK Jr. is removing his name from the ballot in key swing states -- the states Trump needs to win. Even a move of one or two percentage points in these states can tip the scales in the electoral vote. Think about it: if Trump carries Pennsylvania and Georgia (in addition to the states that are already leaning his way) he wins. It's that simple. He won't need Michigan, Wisconsin, Nevada or Arizona. Conversely, he could lose Pennsylvania but carry some combination of Michigan and Nevada or Wisconsin and Arizona or Michigan and Arizona and still win. So, with this many ways to win, a slight tip makes a big difference!

2) The maverick factor.
A strong maverick streak runs through America's soul. We've always admired the mavericks -- those who move against the grain, who defy the odds, who prove conventional wisdom wrong. And this has always been a big part of President Trump's appeal. Now he's teamed with two well-know, daring mavericks: RFK Jr. and Elon Musk. These are people who think outside the box -- the type of people who have provided audacious insight, charted new paths, opened our minds and helped to make America great. Don't discount the appeal of the maverick!

3) Disaffected Dems.
In his strong and compelling statement today Bobby Jr. detailed how the Democrat Party has let him (and America!) down -- how they played dirty; undermined democracy and belittled his heritage. He specifically mentioned his uncle and his father and how horrified they would be at the tactics and present state of the modern Democrat Party. Kamala Harris can roll out all the "Republicans" for Harris that she wants but none of them can hold a candle to this. RFK Jr. has broken royal ranks. This is a fissure that the Democrats brought on  themselves and there are many disaffected Democrats who feel the party let them down and left them in the lurch. Today, Bobby told them to join him and join Trump!

4) Saving face.
President Trump was always respectful to RFK Jr. and his supporters. He was shrewd -- a clever tactician. And Bobby Jr. will save face by keeping his name on the ballot in the non-swing states. Those who call Trump capricious, reckless and careless don't know what the hell they're talking about. Once again, Trump's instincts were good. He gave Bobby space. He didn't goad him or nudge him. He was patient, generous, careful and attentive. Those are the marks not just of a good politician but a true leader -- someone who sees the opportunity and brings people together; who's confident enough to seek out and welcome new people into the tent and build a true, broad coalition; someone who seeks unity.

5) Legacy voters.
Sure, Bobby will bring in more independent-minded voters -- a group that Trump needs to win the presidency. But this also strengthens Trump's hand with another key group -- legacy voters. These are older Americans who fondly remember two American martyrs -- President John F. Kennedy and Senator Robert F. Kennedy. And this is one group that votes, and votes in great numbers. On top of all that, let's not forget that President Trump came within a whisker of being assassinated himself -- something that surely resonates with Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.

One final thought: The Democrats (once the party of JFK and RFK) treated Bobby Jr. horribly. This is a deceitful, ungrateful, viscous, mean-spirited party devoid of any sense of  purpose, heritage or even common decency. Shame on 'em!

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