"At This Point, I Would Run" Says Bobby Kennedy Jr.

[RFKJrNews]

(EXCERPT)

In a recent interview with Oprah Winfrey, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. did away with his former protestations of having no interest in running for public office. He told her “at this point, I would run if there were an office open because I’m so distressed about the kind of country my children will inherit.”

(Pssst…Bobby, there *is* an office open, just waiting for you to claim it in 2008. The Oval Office.)

“I’ve always avoided politics because I didn’t want to make commitments that would take me away from raising my children.” Kennedy said. “But now America has changed so drastically that I’m asking myself: What’s going to be left of this country? I’m spending time with my kids, but maybe my time would be spent just as well if I tried to save the country.”

“I’ve tried to cling to the idea that I could be of public service without compromising my family life,” he told Oprah. “But at this point, I would run.”

At this point, I would run. Notice he says that not once, not twice, but three times in his talk with Oprah.

The interview, which appeared in the February 2007 issue of O Magazine, was the first time Kennedy has gone on the record saying that he is actively considering the possibilities of a run.

When asked if he would ever try for the Presidency, Kennedy certainly didn’t say no.

...

READ THE FULL STORY HERE:

http://rfkin2008.wordpress.com/2007/08/12/at-this-point-i-would-run-rfk-jr/



* Please SIGN THE PETITION if you want Bobby Kennedy Jr. to run for the White House!http://RFKin2008.com

[saltpoint]

1. His kids might prefer that he stay on as their dad and not entertain

considerations of higher office, and I wouldn't blame them at all.

But if he were to get interested in a run for the White House, I think he would generate a hell of a buzz, all of it positive -- at least from the people who matter -- and it would be as engaging and exciting as it would be necessary.

We want the best we've got to represent us at all tiers of that ballot.

RFK, Jr. more than meets that criterion.

[sandnsea]

2. I would so be there

Someone America can trust, 100%. I wonder if he'd be able to get media coverage.

[ben_meyers]

7. Media coverage? A Kennedy?

Media circus would be more like it. RFKjr would be smeared with every Kennedy "scandal" from the last 100 years. From Joseph P's anti-semitism and booze running to RFK working for Joe McCarthy to Marilyn Monroe and Chappaquiddick to heroin busts and Skakal. Hell, they would even try to pin Rosemary's lobotomy on him too. I'm not saying it's fair, just that's how the media would treat a member of this family.

[sandnsea]

9. Nah, first they'll ignore him

Like they do now. As for the rest of the so-called scandals, the only people who listen to that shit are people who are never going to vote for a Dem anyway.

[RFKJrNews]

22. They wouldn't be able to ignore him for long

"First they ignore you
then they ridicule you,
then they fight you,
then you win."

-- Mahatma Gandhi





* Ready for a change yet? SIGN THE PETITION to draft Bobby Kennedy Jr. to run for the White house at http://RFKin2008.com

[Grateful for Hope]

104. Exactly right

There are still many people around who remember his Dad and his Uncle very fondly, also.

[Colobo]

3. After Obama's presidency, hopefully he will consider running.

[Terri S]

8. actually, I'm hoping Obama has a place for him now...

and THEN, I'd love to see him go after the presidency after Obama's 2 terms.

[RUMMYisFROSTED]

4. Gravel/Kennedy!!!

:woohoo:

[RFKJrNews]

23. A Gravel/Kennedy ticket

...sounds like a pretty compatible match to me!

I'd also love to see him team up with Dennis Kucinich. Those two seem to be of the same mind on the major issues.




* Please SIGN THE PETITION to draft RFK Jr. into the 2008 race for the White House!
http://RFKin2008.com

[wyldwolf]

5. There will be at least one open Senate seat in '08 - NY or IL

[RFKJrNews]

6. If you want to see Bobby run...

...please SIGN THE PETITION to show him your support and send him your personal words of encouragement at;

http://RFKin2008.com

[Tellurian]

30. Yes, the vacant NY Senate seat would be perfect..

He'd be following in his father's foot steps...

It would give him time to inoculate himself against the heroin incident and begin the political process with a plan.

What is the issue with his voice? I hadn't heard about that.

[jgraz]

34. Aw, c'mon. Hillary's not that bad of a Senator

I'm sure she'll at least be allowed to finish out her term.

[Tellurian]

37. It's the only one that will be vacant..So, we're sending the Senator from Ill.. back to the Chamber!

[RFKJrNews]

50. LOL!

jgraz, you owe me a new keyboard!!!!:)





* SIGN THE PETITION to draft Robert F. Kennedy Jr. into the race for the White House! http://RFKin2008.com

[DFW]

54. Bobby has a problem with his speaking voice

He had very bad asthma years back, and it affected his voice.

He doesn't rasp, or anything like that, but he's slightly wobbly
when he speaks. I give him great credit that he has overcome any
inhibitions he may have had in the past about that, because although
he can't change how his voice sounds, the conviction in it shines
though like the first rays of sunshine on a cloudless morning.

I still don't think he'll run (bets are off if Hillary's Senate
seat becomes vacant should she become president--THAT is the one
elective office I think he might go for, although he'd be a wonder
as head of the EPA or Interior).

[Tellurian]

74. Exactly...

==="bets are off if Hillary's Senate seat becomes vacant should she become president--THAT is the one elective office I think he might go for, although he'd be a wonder as head of the EPA or Interior)."===

I heard him speak at the Save the Earth event and he sounded just fine. If he is serious about getting politically involved, it is in his best interests to build his resume from the bottom up and give the public time to digest his felony record with the offset of his (future) past achievements. He needs to begin at the beginning. Eight yrs in the senate would be a great start proving himself worthy of high office.

I hope he does! :)

[RFKJrNews]

76. If he doesn't run for the Presidency

I sure would love to see him appointed the next Attorney General of the United States. He would restore the integrity of that office to serve and protect the rights of all Americans as his father once envisioned it.

After Ashcroft and Gonzales, we need all the help we can get!





* Please SIGN THE PETITION to draft Robert F. Kennedy Jr. into the race for the White House!
http://RFKin2008.com

[DFW]

83. Wouldn't THAT be a repeat of history!!

I'd bet he'd be every bit as good as his father was, too.

[RFKJrNews]

88. You know it!:)

His challenge going into this fractured, disgraced Justice dept. would be even greater than what his father faced as AG.

Hard to imagine we've actually come to that point in our history, but I think we're there. Much like the presidency, the Attorney General's job is something I wouldn't really want to wish on anyone right now...

Isn't it ironic that the Justice dept. bldg. was named after his father during the BUSH presidency? That one always stung a bit...






* Please SIGN THE PETITION to draft Robert F. Kennedy Jr. into the race for the White House at http://RFKin2008.com

[sabbat hunter]

98. voice issues

are unrelated to his asthma as far as I know.

[Vidar]

122. Hard to fill his father's shoes, but he's sure as hell doing it!

[calimary]

10. Thanks for this, and Welcome to DU!

Petition signed. Thread kicked and recommended.

What a breath of fresh air that would be!

[polichick]

11. Gore-Kennedy would work for me!

:patriot: :patriot:

[Totally Committed]

13. Awesome ticket!

And, a dream-come-true for REAL Democrats everywhere!

This is so great! :applause:


TC

[bunny planet]

17. Be still my heart. That would be an awesome ticket.

Oh please, oh please, oh please, and, yes, I've signed petitions asking (begging) both to run.

[robinlynne]

19. That possibility takes my breath away.

[RFKJrNews]

27. Bobby needs to hear from you right now

SIGN THAT PETITION and show him your support!

Tell him that he is wanted and needed in this race!

Thanks to all ya'll who have already put your John Hancocks on the dotted line. :) :) :)

We just started this petition so imagine...on Jan. 21, 2009, when he is inaugurated, you'll be able to look back and brag to all your friends: "I was one of the first 100 signatures on his draft petition!"


* SIGN THE PETITION to DRAFT RFK at http://RFKin2008.com

[robinlynne]

70. I will, but I fear for his life.

[glitch]

25. Tears. I don't know if our country has evolved enough for them yet.

Not that we couldn't use the boost. We should hire our own team of body guards for them. Actually, should do that even if they don't run, protect our precious human resources.

[Pyrzqxgl]

45. How about Edwards/Kennedy?

[polichick]

53. I wonder if they're talking...

It's pretty clear that Kennedy has sent a signal to somebody.

[RFKJrNews]

119. RFK Jr. and Edwards...

those two seem to share many of the same ideals. I know RFK Sr. was one of Edwards greatest heroes.

In one particular interview with West Virginia Public Radio, RFK Jr.
was asked his thoughts on John Edwards’ recent poverty tour of the south, so reminiscent of Robert Kennedy’s efforts there 40 years ago:

“I commend him for it.” RFK Jr. replied. “I think he’s running a great campaign, and he’s appealing to the intrinsic populism that is part of the American experience.”

Read the full story here:
RFK JR - If The Press Reported What's Really Going On, "There Would Be A Revolution In This Country."
http://rfkin2008.wordpress.com/2007/07/21/rfk-jr-if-the-press-reported-whats-really-going-on-there-would-be-a-revolution-in-this-country/

[Colorado Progressive]

90. Dream ticket! I think I just felt happiness (first in 7 years!)

[MonkeyFunk]

12. I don't think he'd do well

President isn't an entry-level position, and his heroin bust in the 80s probably wouldn't go over well with the electorate. And his voice disorder would be a barrier, too.

[Totally Committed]

14. He's not far enough to the Right for you, you mean.

His record has been cleared of that bust. His voice is, well, his voice. He's just not close enough to Attla the Hillary for you.

TC

[MonkeyFunk]

16. don't be silly

I'm discussing reality.

There's no denying that he pled guilty to heroin possession - and not a tiny amount, either. And his voice, whether you think so or not, would be a liability in electoral politics.


edit: I was wrong, it wasn't that much heroin - but he pled guilty. How was he "cleared" of it?

[mitchtv]

18. Unfair and totally off base

those are two very good items for the "cons" list. Neither is an attack on RFK who I would love to see in charge, but be honest, and not defensive.

[ronnykmarshall]

109. Wow that's a sure fire way to gain support.

:eyes:

[Martin Eden]

20. His voice disorder is a huge handicap.

Like it or not, it is.

[RFKJrNews]

29. How his voice sounds is not what matters...

It's WHAT HE IS SAYING that matters!

Try to get past the speech disorder he suffers from (spasmodic dysphonia) and LISTEN to his words. Think you'll like what you hear.

To answer monkeyFunk's question, the heroin bust is no longer on his record. Completely cleared after he served 1500 hours of community service. He has been clean and sober for nearly 25 years and has inspired countless others to win their own battles with addiction.

Again, I repeat, HE HAS NO CRIMINAL RECORD (except for that one time he was arrested for protesting the Navy's unexploded munitions on Vieques)!




* Please SIGN THE PETITION to draft RFK Jr. for President at:
http://RFKin2008.com

[MonkeyFunk]

39. I've never said one word

about his positions. I'm talking about political realities.

You think a heroin bust WON'T be an issue for a presidential candidate?

You think his voice is NOT an issue?

Sorry, that's really naive. Both are big issues - regardless of where he stands on issues.

And you didn't respond to my first point, which is that he's never run for or held elective office.

And i cant find any reference to his conviction being expunged. do you have a link to that?

[RFKJrNews]

42. Have you seen the Congressional approval rating lately?

monkeyFunk, just incase you missed it, the public's approval rating of our Congresscritters is lower than it has ever been in the country's history. We think less of them than Bush. And that's saying something!

In other words, I don't think that being a member of Congress is viewed as a "plus" by voters anymore. We seek fresh approaches and real leadership, none of which is present in the 110th congress.

Those who know Bobby would say he knows what's going on in congress right now better than our elected representatives do. He actually reads the bills, does the homework. He lives and breathes this stuff.

As for the tired old horse you keep beating about bobby's past drug bust, it was 25 years ago. The fact that he's been clean and sober ever since will likely be viewed as a strength in character, not a flaw.

Overcoming addiction is not something a candidate should have to hide, IMHO. Or lie about ("I smoked but I didn't inhale" yadda, yadda), or be subject to attack for, though no doubt his enemies will attempt to use his prior drug arrest against him.

You asked for info on his conviction being cleared. Here it is:

Kennedy Son Given Probation in Drug Case

Published: March 17, 1984
NEW YORK TIMES

Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who pleaded guilty in September to possessing heroin, today began two years of probation.

Presiding Judge Marshall P. Young of Seventh Circuit Court ordered the 30- year-old Mr. Kennedy to take periodic tests for drug use, treatment, join Narcotics Anonymous and perform 1,500 hours of community service.

The son of the late Senator Robert F. Kennedy will remain in New York during the probation. ****If he meets the conditions, the felony conviction will be sealed and his court record legally erased.*****

If he violates probation, he will face two years in the penitentiary, the judge said. He added that the sentence ''has nothing to do with your name or anything else.''

Mr. Kennedy was arrested on an airline flight from Minneapolis to Rapid City Sept. 11, 1983. A search of his flight bag uncovered 183 milligrams of heroin, the authorities said. Two days later he voluntarily entered a drug treatment center in New Jersey.
___________________________________________________________________

Remember, because RFK Jr. met the conditions of his probation, the felony conviction was *legally erased from the record*.

So anyone who says he is a convicted felon is either misinformed or trying to smear him.

Incidentally, this is the same deal a California judge just gave the Gore kid who got busted for posession of pot and a rather potent brew of RX drugs while speeding down the highway at 110 mph. If Al Gore's son completes the community service/rehab program, his conviction will be erased eventually, too...thus freeing him up to run for President in 2020...



*Please SIGN THE PETITION TO DRAFT RFK JR. INTO THE RACE FOR THE WHITE HOUSE! http://RFKin2008.com

[MonkeyFunk]

57. Thanks

I googled all over and couldn't find it.

Nonetheless, its historical record that he pled guilty to the felony of heroin possession. If you think the other side won't bring that up, you're just wrong. Kennedy admitted to a 10 year addiction to heroin - if you think that won't be an issue, you're wrong.

Where did I say he had to be a congressman? That's a lame argument - that congress has low ratings (and congress ALWAYS has low ratings - the Dems hate the Repubs in congress, and the repubs hate the Dems in congress) has nothing to do with the fact that Robert Kennedy Jr. has never run for or held elected office.

As I said, the Presidency is not an entry-level position. Historically, only military leaders get that privilege.

[Susang]

65. Not to mention his stance on vaccinations

Never mind the actual science. :eyes:

[progressoid]

71. Yup.

[barbtries]

89. the current president

arrested for dui. known blow hard. at least rfk has whipped his demons and proved it for years

[RFKJrNews]

92. I can't even tell when Bush is sober these days

...guess you've got to catch him before 10am or so. I've heard Bush slurring his words in press conferences as early as 9am Washington time. So it seems he starts hitting the juice pretty early in the day (and God only knows what else!), is it any wonder we're in the mess we're in today?

Bobby Kennedy, by comparison, licked his addictions long ago. He still attends AA/NA meetings regularly, and has sponsored many others seeking sobriety.

Waiter, I'll take RFK Jr., who has been sober for 25 years, please!



* Please SIGN THE PETITION to draft Robert F. Kennedy Jr. into the race for the White House at http://RFKin2008.com

[Martin Eden]

43. It doesn't matter one bit to me.

I'm a big fan of RFK Jr, and would vote for him in a heartbeat.

But if you think his voice disorder wouldn't be a major handicap in the general election for president, then you don't understand the voting public.

[RFKJrNews]

47. A lot of politicians talk funny...

It sure didn't stop LBJ, Nixon, Carter, Reagan, Clinton or Bush from getting elected. Their uh, shall we say, "unique" manner of speaking gave the late night talk show comics lots to work with. So goes the world of satire. I think Bobby's got a sense of humor about it.

His voice may quiver when he speaks, but at least he can use the english language correctly and assemble a coherent sentence, unlike our current president.

Having a vocal disorder hasn't stopped Bobby from hosting a nationally syndicated radio talk show, nor does it stop him from addressing large crowds and getting standing ovations everywhere he goes. They don't seem to be bothered by his speaking voice at all.

I'm stumping for Bobby because of where he stands on the issues. And am sure you support him for the same reasons, as you always have.:)



* Please SIGN THE PETITION to draft RFK Jr. into the race for the White house! http://RFKin2008.com

[burrowowl]

73. Signed petition

and JFK Jr. knows about the environment, the biggest challenge facing the world!
I took pictures of his Father and Mother, here in Albuquerque, just a few days before JFK was killed.
The only thing that scares me is that JFK Jr. could be assassinated too and this would kill any faith I have left in America.

[calimary]

55. Already did. About the voice - does it seem to you as though he's been

working on that lately? I think he's the one I heard interviewed recently and he didn't have that vocal affliction nearly as much.

[RFKJrNews]

78. Yes, his voice *has* been improving!

Spasmodic dysphonia is a much-misunderstood malady. Apparently it is genetic and was not the result of his asthma or prior drug use. His voice used to be clear as a bell, the disorder only reared it's ugly head when he was about 40 years old.

From what I read, there is no complete cure, but it is treatable. One of the treatments Bobby is taking is Botox shots into his throat every four months, and there has been a noticeable improvement in his voice since he began this regimen of treatment.

Listen to his radio show "Ring of Fire" Saturdays/Sundays on Air America ( or at http://ringoffireradio.com) and you can really hear the difference between recent shows and programs in the archives from the past year or two.

So as the Beatles once said, "it's getting better all time..."



* Please SIGN THE PETITION to draft Robert F. Kennedy Jr. into the race for the White House!
http://RFKin2008.com

[smalll]

63. Exactly - people shouldn't be focusing on trivia like the way his voice sounds -

what does that really have to do about being President? People should be focusing instead on the fact that this non-politician is a Kennedy; that's the kind of trivia we should be focusing on!

:sarcasm:

[polichick]

35. Probably not a problem for the veep...

He and Gore would make such an incredible team for the environment!

[H2O Man]

49. Only for shallow people.

He might not get their support, anyway. But among the general public, he does just fine.

[MonkeyFunk]

59. How do you know that?

Has he been included in any presidential polls?

[H2O Man]

121. You miss

a rather obvious point.

[defendandprotect]

66. And what were Bush's "handicaps" -- ????

Bush can barely speak -- !!!!

[RFKJrNews]

81. Bush can hardly speak...

...when he's sober!





* Please SIGN THE PETITION to draft Robert F. Kennedy Jr. into the race for the White House!
http://RFKin2008.com

[Liberty Belle]

15. Kennedy-Edwards: what a charisma matchup!

Or vice versa.

Now that would be an exciting shakeup to the race!

[RFKJrNews]

31. Kennedy/Edwards

now there's a boatload of handsome!!!:)


* Please SIGN THE PETITION to draft RFK Jr. into the race for the White House at http://RFKin2008.com

[Hippo_Tron]

21. I just hope that he doesn't get assassinated

[AtomicKitten]

24. I would jump on board the RFK, Jr. train.

gladly

[Tellurian]

26. The neocons would serve him up six ways from Sunday...

They'd blow that heroin story up larger than live... The repukes would run a commercial with a needle sticking out of his arm..

He'd destroy himself trying to pass the purity test for both the Left and Right Wings...

Not worth it, Bobby!

[RFKJrNews]

33. Bobby, save us from "Queen Hillary!"

If his opponents ran such a disgusting TV ad, they would only make themselves, not Bobby, look bad.

Digging up a drug bust from 25 years ago is a transparent tactic that people would see right through, and the voting public would frankly be mortified that the other side would stoop so low in their mudslinging.

No candidate has a sqeaky clean past anymore. Bill and Hillary *did* inhale (through a big `ol straw, according to many reports), and those of you with a longer memory of the Clintons might recall a little place called Mena, Arkansas...think those allegations won't resurface in the 2008 race?

You bet they will. If Hillary wins the nomination, get ready for a shitfight from the Republicans the likes of which we haven't seen in 15 years...probably even worse this time around. Again, I'm not saying it's fair, but Hillary's going to get served for breakfast by the right-wing media.



* SIGN THE PETITION to draft RFK Jr. to run for the White House in 2008!
http://RFKin2008.com

[MonkeyFunk]

40. You really

think the electorate would equate a 10-year heroin addiction with smoking pot in college?

[RFKJrNews]

44. I guess you've never inhaled before...

...or you would know that pot is not "inhaled" through a straw.

Cocaine is.

You guys really need to do some research into the many allegations of drug use and drug-running by the Clintons. Don't know if any of it is true, but it's out there and has been for years. Google it.

Let's face it, when it comes to a "purity test," the Clintons are not going to wind up looking good. Whitewater, Vince Foster, Bill's busy extramarital sex life, etc...my goodness, have you forgotten her husband was *impeached* over a BJ from a silly intern?

Sheesh, and we can't seem to impeach a President for commiting high crimes and misdemeanors these days. What is wrong with our country?



* SIGN THE PETITION to draft RFK Jr. to run for the White House!
http://RFKin2008.com

[MonkeyFunk]

58. oh geez

the Clinton drug-running rumors? Vince Foster? Are you for real?

You bring those up, and yet have the balls to say that Kennedy's admitted 10-year heroin addiction and felony conviction WON'T be issues?

[RFKJrNews]

80. Every candidate will face their past being dredged up

Whomever we nominate will face tremendous scrutiny and vicious attacks. I have stated here flatly several times that I fully expect Bobby's past drug and alcohol addiction to be thrown in his face by his detractors. Not sure where you got the notion that I don't anticpate that?

Hell, I may have been born at night, but it wasn't *last night*.:)

As for the old Clinton scandals, rumors, conspiracy theories, lies, etc...again, like I said, I don't know if there's an ounce of truth to any of it, but that didn't stop the media from having a field day with it before. And they certainly will again. You can bet on that.

This upcoming election is for all the marbles, perhaps the most important in our nation's history. We cannot expect the Republicans to turn over the reins of power without a fight. Things will get ugly, and any candidate we nominate may as well be ready for the onslaught.

Of course, I understand that you are only defending your political hopeful, as I am mine. No offense taken, a thoughtful debate is always welcome.




* Please SIGN THE PETITION to draft Robert F. Kennedy Jr. into the race for the White House!
http://RFKin2008.com

[MonkeyFunk]

84. I haven't yet chosen a candidate

I'm still split between Obama and Clinton.

But I end up defending Clinton because idiots keep bringing up stupid stuff like Vince Foster.

If you think Hillary Clinton is really vulnerable on the Vince Foster issue, then you're not worth arguing with.

[RFKJrNews]

85. Good to see you're keeping an open mind

Seems to me you're trying to stir up animosity where there is none.

Calling people "idiots" is not going to earn you any respect - as a debating tactic, it just isn't effective.

If you want to argue, looks like you'll have to find somebody else to tangle with. (You might try the "Draft, Yes or No?" poll thread, where tempers are flaring at the present moment.) None for me, thanks. I'm a lover, not a fighter!:)

Peace.



* SIGN THE PETITION for draft RFK Jr. into the race for the White house:
http://RFKin2008.com

[MonkeyFunk]

87. I maintain

that people who think the Vince Foster lie will resonate with voters is an idiot. Even bringing it up is stupid.

[Tellurian]

41. I guess you're just here to punk everyone...

"If his opponents ran such a disgusting TV ad, they would only make themselves, not Bobby, look bad."

You're dreaming! They would have the public so scared to allow him to take office telling them they'd be electing a "junkie".. It appears, you have no idea how vicious the VRW actually is, otherwise why would you send a good man to slaughter?

FYI, Hillary is the ONLY one that can pass the squeaky clean test...Everything the repukes throw at her is OLD NEWS..She is immune from their smears because she has been inoculated against them..

You bet they will. If Hillary wins the nomination, get ready for a shitfight from the Republicans the likes of which we haven't seen in 15 years...probably even worse this time around. Again, I'm not saying it's fair, but Hillary's going to get served for breakfast by the right-wing media.

I don't care what they throw at Hillary. She's a proven winner. She's beaten the RW time and time again...and the only one that can guarantee a Win in 2008, unlike Kerry and Gore..

[windbreeze]

69. I'd like someone to ask these candidates about the NAU...and how

they feel about it...wb

[RFKJrNews]

108. You can ask RFK Jr. that question directly

Great question, windbreeze. I too am deeply concerned about the North American Union, and so far I have heard few of the candidates address this issue to my satisfaction.

There is a "VOTER QUESTIONS" are on our website where you can ask Bobby about any issue that's on your mind. So far, nobody has asked the NAU question, so please feel free to post it there. All will be forwarded to RFK Jr. - the deadline for questions in Sept. 1.

btw, love your avatar!:)


* Please SIGN THE PETITION to draft Robert F. Kennedy Jr. into the race for the White House!
http://RFKin2008.com

[road2000]

113. Kerry and Gore won n/t

[defendandprotect]

67. I'd be more fearful of another Kennedy "accident" --

but, Bobby is unfortunately right -- we dont't have much time --

and I think he says that from his environmental perspective as well as understanding

how close we are to fascism.

[Totally Committed]

77. I agree.

Environmentally, and politically, we are very close to the point of no return. He knows this, and speaks from those perspectives. And he speaks with truth and courage and FIRE.

Stay safe, dear man... stay safe.

TC

[defendandprotect]

103. Re GW, I heartily agree -- it's sad and we need huge, immediate response ---

Re the safety of Robt Kennedy . . . . these people are absolutely vicious --
and I didn't notice it right away, but the Paul Wellstone deal also involved the loss of his wife.

Seemingly, if this wasn't an accident, no one was taking chances on Mrs Wellstone succeeding Paul as had happened with Mrs. Carnahan vs Ashcroft!!!

[Decruiter]

28. If he decides to run, he is an incredibly brave man with the love of his family

surrounding him. He is beyond a doubt a "portrait in courage". He does his father and his uncle proud.

and he stands for all of "us". I only hope we are up to the challenge.

[onecent]

32. Please have lots of protection my young man - Stay Safe!

You've got my vote!

[RFKJrNews]

38. May God Bless & Protect Him

...and his beautiful family.

If there *is* a God, and he/she still likes America just a little bit (everyone else seems to hate us now) Bobby will run and he will win!!!:)




* Please SIGN THE PETITION to draft RFK Jr. into the race for the White House at http://RFKin2008.com

[jgraz]

36. At this point, I would support you, Bobby.

Hmmm...someone with a conscience running for office. Don't see that very often.

[Totally Committed]

46. I totally agree!

A conscience, a heart, a mind, and a soul... all engaged and working!

I would be thrilled to vote for him.


TC

[RFKJrNews]

48. Loved what he said about the Iraq war...

...on his "Ring of Fire" radio show this week. He outlined what sounded like the only sensible approach I've heard yet on the Iraq mess.

The re-broadcast is on in about an hour (Sunday nite, 7-10pm CST), I encourage you all to check it out on your local Air America affiliate or listen at http://ringoffireradio.com if you want to find out his ideas to get us the hell out of Iraq!



* Please SIGN THE PETITION to draft RFK Jr. into the race for the White House at http://RFKin2008.com

[stellanoir]

51. ". . . see you on the barricades. . ."

Not sure this is gonna load properly. It was cut short for me. Hope it isn't for you.

http://entimg.msn.com/i/ExperienceData/p1-7/us/x.htm?sh=LiveEarth&ep=le_ny&ch=74

[Bongo Prophet]

52. IIRC, He has mentioned running for Hillary's seat if she gets Pres. nomination

I think that would be a great thing, in his dad's footsteps and all.

Even better for the country at large would be a cabinet position.

Just an opinion, I don't see a presidential bid off the bat.

[RFKJrNews]

56. *Kick* for #100!!!!!

The petition drive is brand new, and I see we just registered our 100th signature for Bobby a few minutes ago. Whoo-hoo! :) :) :) :) :)

Thanks to Vicki from colorado for being our 100th signer, and for everybody here at DU who have shown Bobby such strong support today.

If you haven't signed yet, please do so ASAP. We need thousands more!

I maintain the petition as a volunteer and will continue to volunteer for Bobby if he runs. He can count on 25-hour days from me.

The only thing I will ask him is to grant free tickets for his Inaugural to the first 100 petition signers. Why not? ;)



* Please SIGN THE PETITION to draft Robert F. Kennedy Jr. for President:
http://RFKin2008.com

[AspenRose]

60. Yep

Bobby, consider a run for the Senate.

Or consider heading up the EPA. I think he'd be awesome in cleaning up that mess (no pun intended). He's so passionate about the environment that he couldn't help but be good at that job.

It's refreshing to see someone who cares so much about the time he spends with his kids. :loveya:

[defendandprotect]

68. Bobby for Prez . . . but he'd make a great Senate leader -- !!!!

[Colobo]

61. Obama/Kennedy

[MonkeyFunk]

62. Yes

Cuz Obama can overcome the "inexperienced" charge by picking a VP with even LESS experience. :eyes:

[Colobo]

64. Yes, because I came up with it.

C'mon dude...

[burrowowl]

72. Kennedy/Kucinich!

[Freddie Stubbs]

75. He lives in New York, they may have an open Senate Seat pretty soon

[byronius]

79. He's an honorable man. Sharp, ethical, strong.

I love him dearly. Listen to Ring Of Fire every week.

He'd do fine.

[RFKJrNews]

82. Keep those petition signatures coming

Just wanted to thank you folks for keeping this thread alive and well.

Time is of the essence, and Bobby must make a decision soon. So now is the time to show him your support by signing the petition (link below.)

One cool thing about the petition is that there is a space for you to leave your personal comments for him. All will be forwarded to Bobby, so please do let him know your thoughts. Your words of encouragement may well be exactly what he needs to hear. They have a powerful impact!




* Please SIGN THE PETITION to draft Robert F. Kennedy Jr. into the race for the White House!
http://RFKin2008.com

[barbtries]

86. i hate to say it but i'd be so scared for him

but if al gore doesn't run...if kucinich loses the momentum...then, yeah, i could see me voting for him.

[RFKJrNews]

91. Think of the momentum....

they would get if they teamed up and combined forces!

Kennedy/Gore

Kennedy/Kucinich

Kennedy/Edwards

Kennedy/Obama

Kennedy/Gravel


(or the reverse of any of the above, if you prefer.)

Those are just the first few names who pop immediately to mind...

All are very interesting possibilities to think about!



* Please SIGN THE PETITION to draft Robert F. Kennedy Jr. into the race for the White House at http://RFKin2008.com

[Bennyboy]

93. Two Words: HEROIN POSESSION.....

No freaking way:

In 1983, he was arrested in a Rapid City South Dakota Airport for heroin possession. A search of his carry-on bag uncovered 183 milligrams of heroin.<2> Upon entering a plea of guilty, Kennedy, then 30 years old, was sentenced to two years probation, periodic tests for drug use, treatment by joining Narcotics Anonymous, and 1,500 hours of community service by Presiding Judge Marshall P. Young.<3>

[RFKJrNews]

106. The conviction was cleared from his record 22 years ago

(read post #42 above for the full story)





* Please SIGN THE PETITION to draft Robert F. Kennedy Jr. into the race for the White House!
http://RFKin2008.com

[Kurovski]

94. I could go for some of that. (nt)

[MasonJar]

95. If he wants to run, it should be for the Senate seat if Hillary wins. Then

in 8 years he is the man. Or how about VP now? I really admire his environmental work. He is one candidate that Al Gore would get behind. However, even a Kennedy needs some government experience. I fear greatly for him if he runs for president though!!!!!

[nealmhughes]

96. RE: RFK's heroin addiction and bust -- quite frankly it makes me admire him even more and virtually

"blackmail proof."

RE: RFK's voice -- is is clear enough to be understood and the catch in his voice makes him sound supremely sympathic to his listeners.

I admire him greatly for overcoming his addiction and his intellect and zeal at environmental issues.

[Bennyboy]

102. That may be you.....

But the right will crucify him over this. Heroin is BAD MOJO. It is not prescrition drugs. It is not alleged cocaine abuse. It is not smoking pot. It is HEROIN. And no matter how you slice it the word HEROIN has a seriously worse connotation than any thing else you can think of.

[RFKJrNews]

117. BUSH is worse than anything I can think of!

based on his decisions and overall behaviour, I'd have to think our current President is on ACID!!!

I often wish the President doctor would kindly give him a good strong shot of opium so he can nap for the remainder of his term.

You know they say not to wake sleepwalkers, as it can cause brain damage. Obviously, Shrub's slumber has been disturbed too many times!


* Please SIGN THE PETITION to draft Robert F. Kennedy Jr. into the race for the White House!
http://RFKin2008.com

[sabbat hunter]

97. bobby jr has some issues

he has to overcome if he wants to run for political office.

1) his heroin drug bust. Yes it took place 25 years ago, but that is hard to live down. It will be brought up. * has a reputed history with coke but as far as I know he never was arrested for possesion
2) his voice.. he suffers from spasmodic dysphonia which causes sudden involuntary muscle movements or spasms cause the vocal folds to open, making his voice sound weak and strained. I dont know if his voice could handle a full blown campaign.
3) His opposition to a wind farm off of Cape cod. he has a strong environmental record but joined family members in opposing the cape wind project due to how it would supposed effect the view from martha's vineyard.

[dailykoff]

100. Dumya has a few issues too, so does his wife,

like murder and desertion, but with prayer and dedication they "overcame" them, if you get my drift.

[sabbat hunter]

105. unfortunately

* did not plead guilty to murder, desertion, etc.

Bobby Jr, did plead guilty to heroin possession, and unfortunately a large amount to boot.

More importantly can his voice stand up to the rigors of a long campaign.

[RFKJrNews]

114. Factual correction

Bobby's opposition to the Cape Wind project has nothing to do with how the windmills will affect his view from the Kennedy compound. (He doesn't even live there...barely finds time to visit)

He opposes the proposed location of the wind farm for environmental reasons. I would encourage you to read the Op-Ed piece in the New York Times where he explains why and details the damage it could do:

http://www.nytimes.com/2005/12/16/opinion/16kennedy.html?ex=1292389200&en=58e5dd67e381fd58&ei=5090&partner=rssuserla

Bobby has always opposed privatizing the commons, which is exactly what this project would do. It should come as no surprise that he would therefore oppose Cape Wind.

Again, I stress that Bobby DOES SUPPORT a wind farm in the area, but he agrees with Senator Ted Kennedy's proposal to have it built near Otis AFB, not off Nantucket Sound. I agree this is a more suitable location.





* Please SIGN THE PETITION to draft Robert F. Kennedy Jr. for President!
http://RFKin2008.com

[dailykoff]

99. Run, Bobby, run

for anything! And don't spare the personal security detail! (don't let those SS guys get near you)

[AtomicKitten]

101. This IS the point - now run, Bobby, run. (nt)

[jefferson_dem]

107. Look for Jr. to run for the NY Senate seat provided Hillary is no longer there

to occupy it.

Like father...

[ronnykmarshall]

111. If Hillary wins ..

The Gov could appoint him to Hillary's seat.

Thank god we have a democratic gov in NY and IL.

[jefferson_dem]

112. Thanks for that clarification.

So Spitzer would appoint Jr to finish out Hillary's term, which expires in 2012.

*****IF***** Hillary wins...that is...

[ronnykmarshall]

115. He would have run in 2010.

At least that's how it works in California. When :puke: Pete :puke: Wilson became Gov, he appointed some asshole who had to run in 1992. Dianne Fienstein won and had to run for a full term in 1994. It probably works the same in all the states.

[RFKJrNews]

118. That's correct

ronnykmarshall, you're right. If Spitzer appointed RFK Jr. to fill Hillary's senate seat in 2009, Bobby would have to run in a special election to be held in 2010.

Seems like a helluva lot of running around, but if he (or anyone else) wants the senate seat, I believe that's what they would have to do.

someone posted a comment on our blog yesterday that got me wondering:
"would RFK be wasting his time and energy in the Senate?"

One one hand, it would be nice to see him follow in the footsteps of his father and uncles (JFK and Teddy) into the Senate, and in some ways it wouldn't hurt for him to have that experience on his resume.'

On the other hand, being a member of congress requires a certain temperament and willingness to compromise that most of the Kennedys (excepting Ted) did not posess. Both Jack and Bobby felt stifled and ineffective during their years in the Senate. They did not have the patience the process requires, and often felt frustrated that it was so difficult to get anything done there.

The truth is, one or two crusading congresspeople can try their best to introduce important legislation (such as to Impeach Bush, or get us out of Iraq), but without a majority, these bills cannot pass. One man or woman alone cannot change the world serving as a member of the US Congress.

Dennis Kucinich is a perfect case in point. He's been frustrated in Congress for years. That's why he's running for President! He knows where the real power is. (as do all the Congresspeople currently seeking the Presidency.) Only the President has the power to GET THINGS DONE. He also has powers which exceed/override those of the Congress.

Bobby's uncle JFK probably summed it up best when he said:

" During my years in the Senate, I've come to understand that the Presidency is the ultimate source of action. The Senate is not. All of the things that you become interested in doing, the president can do. The Senate can not, particularly in the area of foreign policy."

-- President John F. Kennedy, dictation for his unfinished memoirs

I think Bobby Kennedy's time is NOW. The world cannot wait until 2012.



* Please SIGN THE PETITION to draft Robert F. Kennedy Jr. into the race for the White House!
http://RFKin2008.com

[ronnykmarshall]

110. I saw him in the Atlanta airport last year.

He was walking with another guy and I looked at him and said to my partner "That's one of Bobby's kids". Then I heard him speak and yup ... it was RFK Jr. He went into the VIP lounge or whatever Delta calls it. I love airports! I've seen him, Natalie Cole, Mel Brooks and Reggie Jackson at various airports.

[kitkat65]

116. I hope he avoids flying in small planes

[RFKJrNews]

120. Me too

Yikes! Let's not even *think* about that possibility.

Good thing he's not a pilot.