Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is embroiled in a legal battle with the Democratic National Committee (DNC) after a judge ruled that he falsely claimed a New York residence on his nominating petitions, potentially disqualifying him from appearing on the state’s presidential ballot. The ruling by Judge Christina Ryba has sparked accusations from Kennedy, who claims the DNC is using “lawfare” to undermine his independent candidacy.
The dispute centers on Kennedy’s use of a friend’s address in New York City’s suburbs to collect signatures for his ballot access. The Democrat-aligned group Clear Choice Action challenged Kennedy’s residency, arguing that his minimal presence at the address did not meet the state’s legal requirements. Judge Ryba agreed, stating that using an address for political purposes without genuine residency could lead to “fraud and political mischief.”
In response, Kennedy took to social media, accusing the DNC of manipulating the legal system to prevent voters from having a choice in the election. “The DNC has become a party that uses lawfare in place of the democratic election process,” Kennedy wrote. His campaign also issued a press release emphasizing his deep ties to New York, including voter registration, tax payments, and professional licenses.
Kennedy’s legal team plans to appeal the ruling and seek injunctive relief in federal court, arguing that the 12th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, not state law, governs the residency of presidential candidates. Despite this setback, Kennedy remains determined to fight for his place on the ballot, asserting that his campaign has already secured enough signatures to appear in all 50 states.
