RFK Jr. Accuses DNC Of ‘Lawfare’ After New York Residency Ruling

Robert F. Kennedy Jr., running as an independent candidate for president, has accused the Democratic National Committee (DNC) of engaging in “lawfare” after a New York judge ruled that he falsely claimed residency in the state on his nominating petitions. The ruling by Judge Christina Ryba could prevent Kennedy from appearing on the New York ballot and has prompted concerns about broader implications for his campaign in other states.

The controversy arose when Clear Choice Action, a Democrat-aligned group, challenged Kennedy’s use of a friend’s address in suburban New York City to gather signatures for his nominating petitions. The group argued that Kennedy’s limited presence at the address did not meet the state’s legal residency requirements. Judge Ryba sided with the challenge, stating that allowing such claims would set a dangerous precedent and open the door to election fraud.

Kennedy responded to the ruling with sharp criticism, accusing the DNC of trying to block his candidacy through legal manipulation rather than democratic competition. “This case is an assault on New York voters who signed in record numbers to place me on their ballot,” Kennedy posted on social media. He also vowed to appeal the ruling, asserting that his campaign would ultimately prevail.

Kennedy’s legal team plans to seek injunctive relief in federal court, arguing that the 12th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, which governs the residency of presidential candidates, should take precedence over state law. Despite the legal challenge, Kennedy’s campaign remains determined, having recently announced that they have secured enough signatures to appear on the ballot in all 50 states and the District of Columbia.