In a stunning move, Caroline Kennedy, the daughter of former U.S. President John F. Kennedy, has publicly criticized her cousin Robert F. Kennedy Jr. in an open letter. The letter, released just before RFK Jr.'s Senate confirmation hearing for his role as Donald Trump’s pick for Health and Human Services Secretary, makes a series of explosive allegations about his past and character. Kennedy accuses her cousin of being a manipulative figure who thrives on attention and power.
Here are the five most shocking revelations from Caroline Kennedy’s letter:
1. Disturbing Treatment of Animals
Caroline Kennedy alleges that RFK Jr. has a history of gruesome behavior toward animals. She claimed that he had a bizarre habit of feeding baby chickens and mice to his pet hawks by blending them. She described these acts as “perverse scenes of despair and violence.” This shocking detail has raised serious concerns about his character and his ability to lead a major health department.
2. Leading Family Members into Drug Addiction
Caroline Kennedy also accused RFK Jr. of influencing his family members into substance abuse. She claims that his basement, garage, and dorm room were centers for drug activity, where he encouraged his siblings and cousins to join in. Many of these individuals later suffered from addiction-related illnesses or even lost their lives. While RFK Jr. has spoken openly about his own struggles with heroin addiction, Caroline Kennedy pointed out that he has since misrepresented his past and “cheated his way through life.”
3. Controversial Vaccine Views for Financial Gain
RFK Jr. has been a vocal opponent of vaccines, a stance that has drawn criticism from many, including his own family. Caroline Kennedy argues that his anti-vaccine activism is not just dangerous but also financially motivated. According to her, he has profited from lawsuits against vaccine manufacturers, particularly in cases related to the HPV vaccine Gardasil. She stated that his views are misleading and that he is harming public health while using his position for personal gain.
4. Hypocrisy on Vaccinations
While RFK Jr. has spent years discouraging parents from vaccinating their children, Caroline Kennedy alleges that he has vaccinated his own children. She claims that he preys on the fears of desperate parents while ensuring his own family is protected. This hypocrisy, she argues, has contributed to vaccine hesitancy and put many lives at risk.
5. Exploiting the Kennedy Name for Personal Advancement
Caroline Kennedy also criticized RFK Jr. for using the Kennedy family legacy to further his political ambitions. She accused him of distorting the image of their father, Robert F. Kennedy, as well as her father, John F. Kennedy. She further condemned his decision to join the Trump administration, saying he once used the Kennedy name for his failed presidential campaign and then “groveled” to Trump for a government position. She believes that their father would have been deeply disappointed by his actions.
The Fallout
This scathing letter has sent shockwaves across political circles, especially as RFK Jr. prepares for his Senate confirmation hearing. Many see this as a defining moment in his career, as Caroline Kennedy’s words come from within his own family, carrying significant weight.
As this controversy unfolds, RFK Jr.’s credibility and integrity are under intense scrutiny. The Kennedy name, once associated with progressive politics and public service, is now at the center of a bitter family feud that could have lasting consequences for both RFK Jr.'s career and the Kennedy legacy.