Unveiling R.F.K. Jr.’s Ballot Access Battle: Surprising Strategies and Legal Challenges

Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s independent presidential campaign is facing a tough battle for ballot access, relying on a mix of volunteers, consultants, and paid petitioners to secure signatures in all 50 states. The campaign has already spent hundreds of thousands of dollars on this effort, with a super PAC chipping in an additional $2.4 million.

Despite facing challenges and questions of impropriety, the campaign has made progress, recently securing ballot access in Michigan and Hawaii. They have also gathered enough signatures to submit petitions in six other states, with more to come.

The Democratic Party is particularly concerned about Kennedy’s candidacy, dedicating resources to counter his influence. Accusations of political subterfuge and attempts to impede the campaign’s hiring have been made, although the Democrats deny these claims.

Kennedy’s legal team, led by Paul A. Rossi, has been instrumental in navigating the complex rules and regulations of each state. Their strategy includes delaying filings to give the Democratic Party less time to challenge them and preemptively filing lawsuits to challenge ballot access restrictions.

The campaign’s reliance on paid consultants has caused friction with grassroots volunteers, but Rossi maintains that professionals are necessary to ensure the success of their ballot access efforts. Petitioning can be expensive, with petitioners being paid by the signature or by the hour.

As the campaign continues its state-by-state battle for ballot access, the importance of legal strategy and financial resources becomes increasingly clear. Kennedy’s team is determined to overcome obstacles and secure a spot on the ballot in all 50 states.