
In a contentious move, North Carolina’s elections board has decided to keep Robert F. Kennedy Jr. on the presidential ballot, despite his efforts to withdraw. After suspending his independent campaign and endorsing President Donald Trump, Kennedy attempted to remove his name from the ballot in crucial swing states like North Carolina, fearing it might split the conservative vote.
The board’s Democratic majority argued that it was too late in the process to honor Kennedy’s request. State law mandates that absentee ballots be sent out by September 6, and officials warned that altering the ballots now would be expensive and logistically challenging. With over 1.7 million ballots already printed, the board concluded that removing Kennedy’s name would not be feasible.
Kennedy’s withdrawal from the race came after he endorsed President Donald Trump, aligning with conservative priorities. However, North Carolina’s refusal to remove his name could have unintended consequences for the upcoming election. The decision has raised concerns about the fairness and integrity of the election process, with critics arguing that the board’s actions could benefit the Democratic Party by potentially splitting the conservative vote.
The controversy surrounding Kennedy’s ballot status in North Carolina is part of a broader battle over election procedures. While Kennedy’s campaign sought to stay on ballots in states like New York, where his candidacy would have little impact, the North Carolina board’s refusal highlights the challenges candidates face when trying to navigate complex election laws.
As the first state to send out absentee ballots for the November election, North Carolina’s decision could have significant implications for the outcome. Voters in the state and across the nation will be watching closely as the situation unfolds.