Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has challenged Donald Trump to a head-to-head debate at a Libertarian convention later this month. Kennedy, an independent candidate, believes he is drawing voters from Trump's former supporters and sees the convention as neutral ground for a debate. Trump, the presumptive GOP nominee, has been critical of Kennedy's bid and has demanded a debate with President Joe Biden.
Trump has been vocal about debating Biden but has avoided other rivals' debate requests. Kennedy, who previously challenged Biden for the Democratic nomination, argues that his candidacy is gaining traction, citing his performance in national polls. The upcoming Libertarian National Convention in Washington, D.C. will host both candidates on separate days.
While both Trump and Kennedy are vying for libertarian-leaning voters, Kennedy is not running as an official Libertarian candidate. Trump's campaign has intensified attacks on Kennedy, labeling him a Democrat 'plant' and a threat to his candidacy. Despite Trump's dismissive comments on Kennedy's polling numbers, Kennedy remains determined to engage in a debate with Trump.
Trump's campaign has criticized Kennedy through various platforms, including social media and a dedicated anti-Kennedy website. Trump downplayed the impact of Kennedy's campaign, emphasizing the need for higher polling numbers to be considered a credible threat. Trump believes that any votes Kennedy may attract would likely come from Biden rather than himself.
