Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Gathers Signatures to Enter Texas Ballot, Potentially Shifting Senate Race

Independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is making waves in Texas as he gathers enough signatures to potentially secure a spot on the ballot, setting the stage for a three-way contest in the state. While Kennedy may not be favored to win in the Republican-dominated state, his presence in the race could have unexpected consequences, particularly in the closely watched Senate race between Senator Ted Cruz and Democratic challenger Representative Colin Allred.

Recent polls indicate that Kennedy’s supporters lean towards supporting Allred over Cruz, potentially mobilizing voters who would otherwise stay home and shifting the dynamics of the race. Kennedy’s campaign has already collected over 200,000 signatures, well surpassing the required amount, with plans to submit more than 180,000 to the Texas secretary of state by the Monday deadline.

The addition of Kennedy to the race has raised concerns among both Republican and Democratic officials, with the potential to draw votes away from both President Trump and President Biden. While Cruz has led in polls so far, the impact of Kennedy’s candidacy has yet to be fully assessed.

Both Senate candidates are working to appeal to moderate voters, emphasizing bipartisan efforts and key issues such as health care and infrastructure. The Allred campaign, in particular, is looking to court Republicans and women in major Texas suburbs, highlighting issues like access to abortion and bipartisan legislation.

As the race heats up in Texas, the presence of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. adds a new dimension to the political landscape, with potential implications for both the presidential and Senate races. Voters will have to wait and see how this three-way contest plays out in one of the nation’s most populous states.