The Shifting Alliances: Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and the Impact of Dark Money in Politics

Hands exchanging money in front of Capitol building.

A leftist dark money group, the Sixteen Thirty Fund, has dramatically shifted its stance on Robert F. Kennedy Jr., now opposing his nomination as Health and Human Services (HHS) secretary after previously supporting his presidential campaign.

Quick Takes

  • The Sixteen Thirty Fund is funding a “war room” to oppose RFK Jr.’s confirmation as HHS secretary.
  • The group previously supported Kennedy’s presidential campaign through a super PAC.
  • The Fund may spend seven figures on digital ads to thwart Kennedy’s nomination.
  • There are no prohibitions on foreign dollars being used to oppose cabinet nominations.
  • Kennedy’s Senate hearings have been delayed due to paperwork issues.

From Ally to Adversary: The Sixteen Thirty Fund’s Reversal on RFK Jr.

In a striking display of political maneuvering, the Sixteen Thirty Fund, a prominent left-wing dark money group, has executed a complete about-face regarding Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Once a supporter of Kennedy’s presidential aspirations, the organization is now spearheading efforts to derail his nomination as Health and Human Services (HHS) secretary. This dramatic shift underscores the fluid nature of political alliances and the significant influence of dark money in shaping the political landscape.

The Sixteen Thirty Fund’s involvement in Kennedy’s political journey began with its support for his presidential campaign through a super PAC called Retire Career Politicians. This super PAC spent $400,000 on Kennedy’s behalf, even after he dropped out of the race. However, the Fund’s position has now reversed dramatically, as it backs a “Stop RFK War Room” effort run by Protect Our Care, an organization accusing Kennedy of spreading misinformation about vaccines.

The Power of Dark Money in Political Campaigns

The Sixteen Thirty Fund’s involvement in both supporting and opposing Kennedy highlights the significant role of dark money in American politics. As a 501(c)(4) organization, the Fund can accept unlimited and anonymous contributions, allowing it to funnel vast sums into various political causes without disclosing its donors. In the 2020 campaign alone, the Fund channeled approximately $400 million to various organizations, demonstrating its considerable influence.

“We are proud to provide administrative and back-office services to support their (Protect Our Care) work to ensure that Americans can get the high-quality health care they need and deserve” the group said.

The Fund’s ability to pivot from supporting Kennedy to opposing him illustrates the flexibility and power of dark money networks. This rapid shift in allegiance raises questions about the true motivations behind such political maneuvers and the long-term impact on democratic processes.

International Influence and Cabinet Nominations

Adding another layer of complexity to this situation is the involvement of foreign money in domestic political affairs. The “War Room” to stop RFK Jr. is heavily backed by Swiss billionaire Hansjörg Wyss, raising concerns about foreign influence in American politics. Caitlin Sutherland of Americans for Public Trust pointed out a significant loophole in campaign finance laws, stating that “there is no prohibition on foreign dollars being used to oppose [a cabinet] nomination.”

“there is no prohibition on foreign dollars being used to oppose [a cabinet] nomination” – Caitlin Sutherland

This revelation underscores the potential for foreign entities to influence key positions in the U.S. government, a concern that extends beyond electoral politics to the very makeup of the executive branch. The lack of restrictions on foreign funding in opposing cabinet nominations opens a pathway for international actors to shape American policy indirectly.

The Road Ahead for Kennedy’s Nomination

Despite the mounting opposition, President-elect Trump remains committed to Kennedy’s nomination. However, the confirmation process has hit early roadblocks, with Senate hearings delayed due to paperwork issues. No hearings are expected before the end of the month, giving both supporters and opponents time to marshal their resources.

As the political drama unfolds, the American public is left to ponder the implications of dark money’s influence on their democracy. The Sixteen Thirty Fund’s flip-flop on Kennedy serves as a stark reminder of the complex and often opaque forces at play in shaping the nation’s political landscape. Whether Kennedy ultimately secures the HHS position or not, this episode has shed light on the powerful currents that flow beneath the surface of American politics, driven by the unlimited and often untraceable funds of dark money groups.

Sources:

  1. Leftist Dark Money Group Opposes RFK Jr. For HHS Secretary After Supporting Presidential Run
  2. Dark money group that backed RFK Jr. for president opposes HHS confirmation – Washington Examiner
  3. Scoop: Liberal dark money group plays both sides on RFK Jr.
  4. Leftist Dark Money Group Opposes RFK Jr. For HHS Secretary After Supporting Presidential Run