Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the independent candidate for president, may not have the poll numbers to secure a spot on the debate stage next month, but he is increasingly becoming known as the electoral “X factor.” With his classic Kennedy image and preppy style, he is capturing attention and sparking conversation.
In a political landscape dominated by larger-than-life personalities like Donald J. Trump and President Biden, Mr. Kennedy stands out with his skinny rep ties, button-down shirts, and weathered tan. His look harkens back to the early 1960s, evoking a sense of vigor, charisma, and change that is deeply ingrained in the American psyche.
Drawing on the style legacy of his uncle, John F. Kennedy, and his father, Robert F. Kennedy, Mr. Kennedy’s image exudes a sense of familiarity and credibility. Despite his controversial views on issues like transgenderism, Wi-Fi, and vaccines, his carefully curated image as a Kennedy heir resonates with many voters.
By aligning himself with the classic Kennedy image, Mr. Kennedy has managed to create a counterargument without saying a word. His style, described as “nostalgia refracted through a fun-house mirror,” taps into a sense of generational change and promise that the Kennedys have long represented.
From posing for fashion campaigns to mimicking iconic Kennedy moments, Mr. Kennedy’s image-making is a powerful tool in his campaign arsenal. His campaign merchandise, featuring slogans like “Make Earth Great Again” and the “Resolute Collection” with a sailboat logo, further reinforces his connection to the Kennedy legacy.
Despite criticism from his extended family and controversial statements, Mr. Kennedy’s image as a Kennedy heir continues to captivate voters and shape the narrative of his campaign. As he navigates the political landscape, his preppy style and classic Kennedy image remain a defining feature of his candidacy.
