Independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. appeared in a New York court to address a lawsuit alleging he falsely claimed residency in New York while seeking to be on the state's ballot. The civil trial, set to begin in Albany, accuses Kennedy of stating his residence was in New York's northern suburbs on his nominating petition, despite living in Los Angeles since 2014.
The lawsuit, filed by Clear Choice PAC, a super PAC supporting President Joe Biden, aims to invalidate Kennedy's petition. Kennedy, known for his famous name and loyal base, has garnered attention as a potential influential independent candidate in decades, sparking concerns from both major parties about his impact on the election.
Despite facing challenges and lawsuits in various states, Kennedy's campaign claims to have gathered enough signatures to qualify in 42 states. In New York, his ballot petition lists a residence in Katonah, a suburb north of Manhattan, which the lawsuit disputes, alleging he has minimal ties to the property and spends little time there.
However, Kennedy's lawyers argue that he has maintained a connection to the Katonah area, visiting the house regularly while campaigning, paying state income taxes, and fulfilling other legal obligations in New York. They assert that Kennedy, a longtime New York resident with deep roots in the state, has always considered himself a New Yorker.
Notably, Kennedy's lawyers emphasize his intention to return to New York once his wife concludes her acting career in California. The court proceedings follow a recent social media video where Kennedy recounted an incident involving a bear in Central Park, showcasing his ties to New York.
