Trump, RFK Jr. Phone Call Leaked
Facts
- A video of a phone conversation between Donald Trump and Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has made its way to social media, with the independent presidential candidate confirming the authenticity of the leak.1
- In the video, Trump can be heard saying, “I would love you to do something,' referring to the upcoming election. “We’re gonna win,” Trump said, with Kennedy replying, “Yeah.” Trump added, “We’re way ahead of the guy,” referring to Pres. Joe Biden.2
- Kennedy issued an apology on X, stating that he was recording with a videographer when he received the phone call from former president Trump on Sunday, saying that he didn’t make sure the cameras were off. “I am mortified that this was posted. I apologize to the president,” he wrote.3
- The video was reportedly uploaded on Tuesday morning by Bobby Kennedy III, the independent's oldest son, but was promptly taken down.4
- In the video, Trump talks about immunizations, mirroring some of Kennedy's statements questioning the safety of vaccines. In his description of the recent attempt on his life, Trump said that the bullet that hit his ear 'sounded like the world's largest mosquito.'5
- Trump and Kennedy met in Milwaukee on Monday before the Republican National Convention, sparking rumors that Kennedy was planning to drop out and back Trump. Afterward, Kennedy said he would not pull out.6
Sources: 1Reuters, 2The Irish Times, 3BBC News, 4New York Times, 5Sky News and 6Yahoo News.
Narratives
- Anti-Trump narrative, as provided by NBC. Just how 'independent' is Kennedy? The leaked video phone call is scandalous in so many ways and confirms what Democrats have been saying all along: Kennedy is a spoiler for Trump, vying to help him win the election. And this video shows them openly coordinating against President Biden.
- Pro-Trump narrative, as provided by Boston Herald. While Democrats are infighting over whether to replace President Biden or not, Trump picks up the phone, trying to maintain a relationship with Kennedy. While Democrats — having labeled him a crazy conspiracy theorist — use every chance to mock and isolate Kennedy, Trump tactfully attempts to win him over.