Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.'s hopes of securing Aaron Rodgers as a running mate have been dashed as the NFL quarterback has decided to prioritize his athletic career.
Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.'s search for a running mate in his independent presidential bid has hit a roadblock with the news that Aaron Rodgers has opted to remain in the NFL. The four-time NFL MVP had been considered a potential candidate to join Kennedy's ticket, but Rodgers has now put those aspirations on hold.
In a statement to reporters after the New York Jets' organized team activities, Rodgers confirmed that he had held discussions with Kennedy but ultimately decided to continue his football career. "I love Bobby, we had a couple of really nice conversations, but there were really two options: It was retire and be his VP or keep playing," Rodgers explained. "But I wanted to keep playing."
Kennedy had previously expressed admiration for Rodgers, citing his intelligence and independence. The idea of Rodgers serving as a running mate had generated significant intrigue, as it would have brought a high-profile athlete into the political arena. However, Kennedy's campaign has now turned its attention to other potential candidates.
In April 2023, the Kennedy campaign confirmed that Rodgers was among several individuals being considered for the vice presidential role. However, shortly after Rodgers' name was floated as a potential running mate, Kennedy selected California lawyer Nicole Shanahan as his vice presidential nominee.
Rodgers' decision to remain in football comes despite his recent injury struggles. The veteran quarterback suffered an Achilles injury in the Jets' 2023 season opener, forcing him to miss the remainder of the year. Rodgers is now hoping to bounce back in 2024 and help the Jets contend for a playoff berth.
The Jets acquired Rodgers in a blockbuster trade with the Green Bay Packers in April 2023. The team is hoping that Rodgers can provide stability and leadership to a young team. The Jets will open the 2024 season on Monday Night Football on the road.
While Rodgers has decided against a political career for the time being, his involvement in the Kennedy campaign had raised questions about the potential intersection between sports and politics. The idea of prominent athletes using their platform to advocate for political causes has been growing in recent years, and Rodgers' potential involvement in the Kennedy campaign would have been a significant step in that direction.
However, with Rodgers opting to remain on the field, Kennedy's campaign will now have to focus on other candidates to fill the vice presidential slot. The independent presidential ticket faces an uphill battle in November, but the addition of a high-profile running mate could have boosted their chances of gaining traction among voters.
