Former Democrats Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Tulsi Gabbard launched a scathing critique of their former party during a rally supporting Donald Trump at Arizona Christian University on Saturday. Kennedy, 70, labelled the Democratic Party as “the party of war, surveillance, and censorship,” claiming it no longer represented the ideals he once supported.
Kennedy’s comments follow his recent decision to suspend his independent presidential campaign and endorse Trump. He is also involved in ongoing legal battles to remove his name from ballots in crucial swing states.
During the rally, Kennedy expressed his belief in Trump’s potential to address what he described as a “chronic disease epidemic” and called for national unity. “If we want to Make America Healthy Again, if we want to Make America Great Again, we need to unify this country,” he said.
Tulsi Gabbard, 43, a former U.S. Representative from Hawaii and 2020 Democratic presidential candidate, shared her critique of the Democratic Party. Gabbard, who left the party in 2022 to support Trump, condemned the Democrats for their foreign policy and described them as an “elite cabal” driven by “warmongers.” She emphasised that the “Reclaim America Tour” is more than party politics; it’s about standing up for freedom and peace.
Some attendees in Arizona believe Kennedy’s endorsement could positively impact Trump’s prospects in the state. Peggy, a retiree from Peoria, suggested that Kennedy might attract some Democrats to support Trump.
Meanwhile, the “Republicans for Harris” coalition remains active in countering Trump’s influence in Arizona. Olivia Troye, a former Trump administration official and event host, criticised Trump, describing him as an “unstable, morally reprehensible fearmonger.” Troye argued that defeating Trump is essential for the Republican Party’s future.
The race for Arizona’s 11 electoral votes is becoming increasingly competitive. Polling data from RealClearPolitics and FiveThirtyEight indicate a tight contest, with Trump holding a narrow lead over Kamala Harris. The battle for undecided voters is heating up, with Trump and Harris holding events across the state.
