Nicole Shanahan, Robert F. Kennedy’s VP Selection, Faces Criticism for Progressive Background

Robert F. Kennedy, an independent presidential candidate, has formally revealed his choice for Vice President, sparking a mix of surprise and apprehension due to the nominee’s perceived “far-left” affiliations.

On Tuesday, Kennedy announced Nicole Shanahan, a wealthy Silicon Valley attorney and tech innovator, as his running mate.

Despite earlier reports suggesting otherwise, many anticipated a different choice for Kennedy’s vice presidential shortlist, with considerations extending to individuals like New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers, former professional wrestler and Minnesota Governor Jesse Ventura, and former Democratic Representative Tulsi Gabbard of Hawaii. However, Kennedy ultimately introduced Shanahan during a campaign event in Oakland, California, emphasizing her technological expertise and dedication to tackling societal issues.

Shanahan’s debut in the political arena signals a notable change in her party allegiance, as she announced her departure from the Democratic Party during the event. Citing disillusionment with the party’s trajectory, Shanahan expressed her backing for Kennedy’s independent candidacy, highlighting his commitment to peace and poverty alleviation. Addressing the crowd, the lifelong Democrat disclosed her decision to leave the party on Tuesday.

“The Democratic Party is supposed to be the party of compassion. It is supposed to be the party of free speech, and most importantly, the party of the middle class and the American dream,” Shanahan said.

“While I know many Democrats still abide by those values…I do believe they’ve lost their way in their leadership,” she argued.

Initially, Shanahan was purportedly reluctant to align with Kennedy due to his choice to run as an independent. However, her renewed endorsement was evidenced by a significant financial donation to a super PAC backing the presidential candidate, which notably aired a Kennedy-themed advertisement during the Super Bowl.

Criticism of the partnership between Kennedy and Shanahan has arisen from Trump-aligned groups and other conservative circles, portraying Kennedy as a “far-left radical” and Shanahan as a “Biden donor leftist.”

“This is a far-left pick by RFK, who is apparently looking to shore up his progressive bona fides,” TPUSA founder Charlie Kirk said on X. “Major red flag for commonsense independents and centrist voters who are also sick of rising crime but intrigued by his campaign.”

“RFK Jr. is the most Radical Left Candidate in the race, by far. He’s a big fan of the Green New Scam, and other economy killing disasters. I guess this would mean he is going to be taking votes from Crooked Joe Biden, which would be a great service to America,” former president Trump remarked on Truth Social. “His running mate, Nicole Shanahan, is even more “Liberal” than him, if that’s possible.”

In the 2020 presidential race, Shanahan donated to Democratic candidates Marianne Williamson and Pete Buttigieg. According to Fox News, she also contributed over $150,000 to support progressive Los Angeles District Attorney George Gascon’s campaign.

Additionally, Shanahan serves as the founder and president of the Bia-Echo Foundation, a private firm with a stated mission focused on “new frontiers in reproductive longevity & equality, criminal justice reform, and a healthy & livable planet.”

Shanahan was previously married to Google co-founder Sergey Brin, but their marriage ended amidst reports of her involvement with Tesla and X CEO Elon Musk, allegations denied by both parties.

The super PAC Make America Great Again Inc., aligned with Trump, directed criticism at both Kennedy and Shanahan following their recent announcement. Spokesman Alex Pfeiffer stated, “Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is a far-left radical who advocates for reparations, supports the Green New Deal, and seeks to ban fracking.”

“It’s no surprise he would pick a Biden donor leftist as his running mate,” he added.

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