Oakland, California – Independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is set to announce his vice presidential pick on Tuesday. Nicole Shanahan, a prominent attorney and entrepreneur from the San Francisco Bay Area, will join Kennedy’s campaign, according to sources familiar with the plans.
Both Kennedy and Shanahan have not previously sought elected office, but Shanahan has shown her support by contributing to Kennedy’s campaign and super PAC. The Kennedy campaign will hold an announcement event in Oakland, California, to introduce Shanahan as the vice presidential candidate.
Kennedy’s decision to choose Shanahan comes at a critical juncture for his campaign. Independent candidates like Kennedy face various challenges in getting on state ballots, including gathering petition signatures. With looming deadlines in several states, selecting a running mate is crucial. Despite ballot access uncertainties, Kennedy’s polling numbers outdo those of other third-party candidates, hinting at a potential impact in swing states during the upcoming election.
Recent surveys in states like Arizona, Michigan, Pennsylvania, and North Carolina indicate notable support for Kennedy. His growing traction among voters underscores the significance of his candidacy in the current political landscape. Joining forces with Shanahan could bolster Kennedy’s campaign and pave the way for strategic initiatives like petition signature collection.
Shanahan’s background as a tech lawyer and entrepreneur with a focus on philanthropy adds a unique dimension to the campaign. Her involvement in various ventures, including a company acquired by IPwe, and her ties to tech industry giants like Google’s Sergey Brin and Elon Musk, bring a wealth of experience to the table. The mission of her foundation, the Bia-Echo Foundation, aligns with her commitment to causes like reproductive health, criminal justice reform, and environmental sustainability.
By tapping into Shanahan’s resources and expertise, Kennedy aims to strengthen his campaign and address issues relevant to voters. Shanahan’s personal motivations, including concerns about children’s health and environmental issues, resonate with Kennedy’s own advocacy efforts, particularly in his role with Children’s Health Defense.
As Kennedy prepares to introduce Shanahan to the public as his vice presidential running mate, the choice signifies a strategic move to elevate his campaign’s visibility and appeal to a broader audience. With Shanahan’s support and expertise, Kennedy’s bid for the presidency gains momentum as they navigate the complexities of the political landscape together.