Kennedy acknowledged that his endorsement had upset his household, significantly his siblings, who’re deeply rooted within the Democratic Celebration.”My household is on the heart of the Democratic Celebration,” Kennedy stated. “I perceive that they are troubled by my selections. I really like my household. We have been raised to debate fiercely and nonetheless love one another. They’re free to take their positions.”
The household’s disapproval was made clear in a letter launched by 5 of Kennedy’s siblings—Kathleen Kennedy Townsend, Courtney Kennedy, Kerry Kennedy, Chris Kennedy, and Rory Kennedy—who criticized his endorsement as a “betrayal” of their household’s values. The letter expressed their help for Vice President Kamala Harris and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, whom they described as representing the hope and shared imaginative and prescient their household has all the time championed.
Kennedy additionally mentioned his spouse, actress Cheryl Hines, who publicly expressed her discomfort together with his determination. “She was very uncomfortable,” Kennedy admitted, acknowledging the pressure his political decisions have placed on their relationship.
Regardless of the backlash, Kennedy stood by his determination, emphasizing the significance of with the ability to disagree whereas sustaining familial love and respect. “I feel all of us want to have the ability to disagree with one another and nonetheless love one another,” he concluded.
The endorsement has sparked vital dialogue, significantly throughout the Kennedy household, who’ve lengthy been related to Democratic beliefs.