Increased Security Concerns Force Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to Cancel Iowa State Fair Appearance
Independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has canceled an upcoming campaign event at the Iowa State Fair due to “increased security concerns.” The campaign cited the outdoor venue as a potential threat to Kennedy’s safety. Despite efforts to find an indoor venue that meets the campaign’s security requirements, they were unable to secure one. The cancellation was reported by the Des Moines Register, who noted that Kennedy was one of ten political candidates scheduled to speak at the fair event.
The decision to cancel the appearance comes as no surprise given Kennedy’s history of death threats and stalking since launching his White House bid. He has long requested Secret Service protection and was finally granted it last month by the Biden administration following the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump. This marks a significant development for Kennedy, as both his father, former New York Sen. Robert F. Kennedy, and his uncle, former President John F. Kennedy, were assassinated in the 1960s.
The Secret Service, recognizing the importance of security, advised the Trump campaign to avoid scheduling outdoor events after the shooting incident at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, on July 13, 2024. While Trump initially pledged to continue hosting outdoor rallies, all of his events since then have been held indoors. This cautious approach reflects the growing concerns surrounding the safety of political candidates and the need for heightened security measures.
Interestingly, Vice President Kamala Harris and her running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, held an outdoor rally in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, just days after Kennedy’s cancellation. This decision raises questions about the varying security protocols implemented by different campaigns and the extent to which candidates are willing to take risks.
In addition to security concerns, Kennedy has also faced controversy this week after admitting to disposing of a dead bear in New York’s Central Park in 2014. He allegedly made it appear as though the bear had been struck by a bicyclist. This revelation may further impact Kennedy’s image and potentially influence public opinion in the 2024 presidential race.
According to a FiveThirtyEight average of national surveys, Kennedy currently has 5.3% support in the race. While his cancellation at the Iowa State Fair may disappoint some supporters, it underscores the importance of prioritizing safety and security in the face of potential threats. The incident serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges and risks faced by political candidates in today’s volatile climate.
