A legal fight is underway in Wisconsin as Robert F. Kennedy Jr. tries to have his name removed from the state’s November ballot. Kennedy, who suspended his presidential campaign and endorsed President Donald Trump, faces resistance from Democrats determined to keep him on the ballot in an effort to hurt Trump’s chances in the swing state.
The case centers around a Dane County Circuit Court ruling that prevents Kennedy from exiting the race due to a state law that bars candidates from withdrawing after filing their nomination papers. Kennedy’s legal team is appealing the ruling, arguing that this law unfairly targets third-party candidates, like him, who should be able to drop out if they choose.
Kennedy’s attorneys point to the case of President Joe Biden, who withdrew earlier this year and was replaced by Vice President Kamala Harris. They argue that Wisconsin’s election laws provide Democrats and Republicans more flexibility than independents, creating a double standard.
With overseas ballots scheduled to be sent out soon, the appeal is moving quickly. Kennedy’s team has asked the appeals court to block his name from appearing on the ballot, asserting that keeping him in the race serves only to divide the conservative vote and help Democrats.
The Democratic National Committee has been relentless in its efforts to keep Kennedy on the ballot, knowing that his presence could siphon votes away from Trump. At the same time, Democrats have been working to disqualify Green Party candidates, further revealing their strategic efforts to shape the election in their favor.
This legal battle highlights the broader issue of how third-party candidates are treated under state election laws and the political tactics used by major parties to manipulate the outcome of elections.