Recent Development: A Leaked Phone Call

Robert F Kennedy Jr has expressed regret and apology for a recently leaked video of his private phone call with ex-president Donald Trump. During the call, Trump seems to be persuading the independent presidential candidate to pledge his support. “I would love you to do something,” Trump is overheard saying in the clip. “And I think it’ll be so good for you and so big for you. And we’re going to win.” Mr Kennedy’s response is simply a noncommittal, “Yeah.”

Trump and Mr Kennedy, viewed as an underdog third-party hopeful, have exchanged criticism sporadically throughout the election season. The contentious video is rumoured to have been recorded a day prior to their meeting in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the site of the ongoing Republican convention, leading to assumptions that Mr Kennedy might withdraw from the presidential race and fully endorse Trump.

RFK’s Stance and Apology

Nevertheless, Stefanie Spear, a spokeswoman for Kennedy, stated on Monday that he has no plans to quit the presidential race. Robert F Kennedy Jr revealed on his Tuesday post: “When President Trump called me, I was recording with an in-house videographer. “I should have ordered the videographer to stop recording right away. I am deeply remorseful that this was posted. I apologise to the president.”

The video was shared online by Robert F Kennedy III, Kennedy’s son, early on Tuesday. The younger Kennedy agreed to take the video down swiftly after stating his intention to reveal Trump’s “real opinion” on child immunisations using the clip.

Trump’s Concern Over Childhood Vaccines

In the video, Trump also discusses doubtful claims about potential health risks linked to childhood vaccinations, a topic that has long interested Mr Kennedy. However, most of the scientific community has dismissed these claims as misinformation. “I agree with you, man. Something’s off with the entire system, and it’s the doctors you find,” Trump is heard saying.

Kennedy to Play in Trump’s Court?

Upon being asked about the possibility of Mr Kennedy teaming up with the Republican presidential nominee, Donald Trump Jr, the ex-president’s son, at a Milwaukee event, he hinted, “maybe there’s a great place for him somewhere in an admin position”. While he denied having concrete information as of yet, he simplistically stated, “I would love to see that happen”.

The forthcoming November polls suggest that Mr Kennedy could potentially grab votes from both Trump and Democrat President Joe Biden, particularly in vital swing states.