History of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. in Timeline
Robert Francis Kennedy Jr. (RFK Jr.) is an American politician, environmental lawyer, and anti-vaccine activist known for his controversial views. He chairs Children's Health Defense, an organization spreading COVID-19 vaccine misinformation. Kennedy, a member of the prominent Kennedy family, is running as an independent candidate in the 2024 presidential election. His activism and political aspirations have made him a controversial figure.
1953: Criticism of Allen Dulles and U.S. Interventions
Kennedy criticized the actions of former CIA director Allen Dulles, condemning U.S.-supported coups and interventions such as the 1953 Iranian coup d'état. He attributed the rise of terrorist organizations like ISIS and anti-American sentiment to U.S. interventions in countries like Syria and Iran.
January 17, 1954: Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is Born
Robert Francis Kennedy Jr. was born on January 17, 1954. He would become an American politician, environmental lawyer, anti-vaccine activist, and conspiracy theorist.
1963: Assassination of President John F. Kennedy
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. was nine years old when his uncle, President John F. Kennedy, was assassinated in 1963.
1964: Mount Kennedy Naming
The Canadian government named Canada's then-highest unclimbed peak after John F. Kennedy in 1964.
1965: First Ascent of Mount Kennedy
Robert F. Kennedy Sr. became the first person to climb Mount Kennedy in 1965.
1968: Assassination of Robert F. Kennedy
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. was 14 years old when his father, Robert F. Kennedy, was assassinated while running for president in 1968.
1970: Involvement in Ted Kennedy's Senatorial Campaigns
Kennedy actively participated in his uncle Ted Kennedy's 1970 Massachusetts senatorial campaign, marking his early involvement in political campaigns.
June 1972: Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Graduates from Palfrey Street School
In June 1972, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. graduated from the Palfrey Street School, a day school outside Boston.
1974: "Poor Chile" Article
In 1974, Kennedy expressed his disapproval of U.S. interference in foreign governments through his article "Poor Chile" published in The Atlantic Monthly, which discussed the overthrow of Chilean President Salvador Allende.
1975: Criticism of Assassination as Foreign Policy Tool
In 1975, he wrote an article in The Wall Street Journal criticizing the use of assassination as a tool of foreign policy.
1975: Apurimac River Expedition
Kennedy led a "first-descent" whitewater expedition down the Apurimac River in Peru in 1975.
1976: Partner and Guide at Utopian
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. was a partner and guide at Utopian, a whitewater company in Maine, from 1976 to 1981.
1976: Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Graduates from Harvard University
In 1976, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. graduated from Harvard University with a Bachelor of Arts in American history and literature.
1976: Involvement in Ted Kennedy's Senatorial Campaigns
Continuing his involvement in family politics, Kennedy worked on his uncle Ted Kennedy's 1976 Massachusetts senatorial campaign.
1979: Atrato River Expedition
Kennedy led a "first-descent" whitewater expedition down the Atrato River in Colombia in 1979.
1980: Involvement in Ted Kennedy's Presidential Campaign
Kennedy played a significant role in his uncle Ted Kennedy's 1980 presidential campaign, serving on the national staff and as a state coordinator.
June 1981: Anti-Nuclear Rally at the Hollywood Bowl
In June 1981, Kennedy spoke at an anti-nuclear rally at the Hollywood Bowl alongside musicians Stephen Stills, Bonnie Raitt, and Jackson Browne.
1981: End of Role at Utopian
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. concluded his role at Utopian, the whitewater company in Maine, in 1981.
April 3, 1982: Marriage to Emily Ruth Black
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. married Emily Ruth Black on April 3, 1982.
1982: Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Earns Juris Doctor Degree from University of Virginia School of Law
In 1982, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. earned his Juris Doctor degree from the University of Virginia School of Law.
1982: Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Becomes Assistant District Attorney
In 1982, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. was sworn in as an assistant district attorney for Manhattan.
1982: Caroni River Expedition
Kennedy led a "first-descent" whitewater expedition down the Caroni River in Venezuela in 1982.
July 1983: Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Resigns as Assistant District Attorney
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. resigned from his position as assistant district attorney for Manhattan in July 1983 after failing the New York bar exam.
February 1984: Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Pleads Guilty to Heroin Possession
In February 1984, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. pleaded guilty to heroin possession in Rapid City, South Dakota and was sentenced to two years probation.
1984: Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Joins Riverkeeper
In 1984, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. joined Riverkeeper, a non-profit organization focused on environmental protection.
1984: Birth of Robert Francis Kennedy III
Robert Francis "Bobby" Kennedy III, son of Robert F. Kennedy Jr., was born in 1984.
1984: Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Begins Volunteering at The Hudson River Fisherman's Association
In 1984, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. began volunteering at The Hudson River Fisherman's Association.
1985: Developing NRDC's International Program
Beginning in 1985, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. was instrumental in developing the Natural Resources Defense Council's (NRDC) international program. This program focused on environmental, energy, and human rights issues. As part of this work, he traveled to Canada and Latin America, assisting indigenous tribes in safeguarding their lands and opposing large-scale energy and resource extraction projects in remote wilderness areas.
1985: Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is Admitted to the New York Bar and Hired as Riverkeeper's Senior Attorney
In 1985, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. was admitted to the New York Bar, after which he was hired as the senior attorney for Riverkeeper.
1986: Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Joins NRDC and Becomes an Adjunct Professor
In 1986, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. joined the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC), another non-profit focused on environmental protection. In the same year, he also became an adjunct professor of environmental law at Pace University School of Law.
1986: The Hudson River Fisherman's Association is Renamed Riverkeeper
In 1986, The Hudson River Fisherman's Association was renamed to Riverkeeper.
1987: Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Earns Master of Laws from Pace University
In 1987, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. earned his Master of Laws from Pace University.
1987: Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Founds Environmental Litigation Clinic
In 1987, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. founded the Environmental Litigation Clinic at Pace University School of Law, where he served as supervising attorney and co-director.
1987: Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Founds Pace's Environmental Litigation Clinic
In 1987, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. founded the Environmental Litigation Clinic at Pace University School of Law.
1987: Reopening of Croton Point Park and Pelham Bay Park
In 1987, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. successfully sued Westchester County, New York to reopen Croton Point Park, which was heavily used by low-income and minority communities from the Bronx. Subsequently, he also forced the reopening of Pelham Bay Park in the Bronx, which had been closed to the public by New York City and repurposed as a police firing range.
1987: Authorship of Falconry Materials
Kennedy played a key role in developing falconry standards in New York in 1987, authoring the state's apprentice falconer exam and manual.
1988: President of New York State Falconry Association
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. served as President of the New York State Falconry Association from 1988 to 1991.
1988: Birth of Kathleen Alexandra Kennedy
Kathleen Alexandra Kennedy, daughter of Robert F. Kennedy Jr., was born in 1988.
1989: Founding of the Food Allergy Initiative and Foreword to "The Peanut Allergy Epidemic"
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. was a founding board member of the Food Allergy Initiative, prompted by his son's peanut allergies. He also wrote the foreword to the book "The Peanut Allergy Epidemic," in which he and the authors made unsubstantiated claims linking the rise in food allergies in children to certain vaccines approved after 1989.
1990: Campaign Against Dams on Biobío River
In 1990, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. assisted the Pehuenches people in Chile in a campaign against the construction of a series of dams on the Biobío River. The campaign was partially successful, derailing all but one of the proposed dams.
1990: Campaign Against Biobío River Dam
Kennedy's campaigns successfully blocked the construction of dams on Chile's Biobío River in 1990.
1991: Campaign Against James Bay Hydro-Project
In 1991, Kennedy helped lead a campaign to stop Hydro-Québec from constructing the James Bay Hydro-project, a large-scale dam project in northern Quebec.
1991: End of Term as President of New York State Falconry Association
Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s term as President of the New York State Falconry Association concluded in 1991.
1991: Legal Representation for Environmentalists and NYC Watershed Consumers
Starting in 1991, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. took on the role of legal representative for environmentalists and New York City watershed consumers. He pursued a series of lawsuits against New York City and polluters in the upstate watershed, alleging the state's negligence in safeguarding the water supply.
1992: Support for Cree Indians Against Hydro-Québec
Beginning in 1992, Kennedy assisted the Cree Indians of northern Quebec in their campaign against Hydro-Québec to halt construction of approximately 600 proposed dams on eleven rivers in James Bay.
1992: Separation from Emily Ruth Black
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Emily Ruth Black separated in 1992.
1993: Advocacy for Indigenous Rights in Ecuador
In 1993, Kennedy and the NRDC, working with Cultural Survival, advocated for the rights of indigenous people in the Oriente region of Ecuador to govern their lands. Kennedy represented CONFENIAE in negotiations with Conoco to limit oil development in the Ecuadorian Amazon and secure benefits from resource extraction for Amazonian tribes. He also criticized Texaco for its history of pollution in the region.
1993: Descent of the Great Whale River
Kennedy made an early descent of the Great Whale River in Quebec, Canada in 1993.
1993: Campaign to End Industrial Logging in Clayoquot Sound
Starting in 1993, Kennedy worked with five Vancouver Island Indian tribes to end industrial logging by MacMillan Bloedel in Clayoquot Sound, British Columbia. This campaign continued until 1999.
April 15, 1994: Marriage to Mary Kathleen Richardson
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. married Mary Kathleen Richardson on April 15, 1994.
1994: Divorce from Emily Ruth Black
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Emily Ruth Black divorced in 1994.
1995: Declared Persona Non Grata in Alberta
In 1995, Alberta Premier Ralph Klein declared Kennedy persona non grata due to Kennedy's activism against the province's large-scale hog production facilities.
1995: Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Advocates for Repeal of Anti-Environment Legislation
In 1995, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. advocated for the repeal of legislation during the 104th congress that he considered unfriendly to the environment.
1995: William Wegner is Convicted of Wildlife Smuggling
In 1995, William Wegner was convicted for tax fraud, perjury, and conspiracy to violate wildlife protection laws for his role in smuggling cockatoo eggs from Australia to the U.S.
1996: Meeting with Fidel Castro
In 1996, Kennedy met with Cuban President Fidel Castro to persuade him to halt plans for a nuclear power plant at Juraguá. During their meeting, Castro discussed his views on Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s father and uncle.
1996: Orchestrating the New York City Watershed Agreement
In 1996, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. was instrumental in securing the $1.2 billion New York City Watershed Agreement. Recognized by New York magazine as a significant achievement, this agreement, which Kennedy negotiated on behalf of environmentalists and New York City watershed consumers, stands as a global benchmark for stakeholder consensus and sustainable development.
1996: Campaign to Protect Laguna San Ignacio
Between 1996 and 2000, Kennedy and NRDC worked to protect Laguna San Ignacio, a gray whale breeding and nursing ground in Baja, Mexico, from a proposed salt facility by Mitsubishi. Kennedy wrote against the project and extended the campaign to Japan, where he met with Prime Minister Keizo Obuchi.
1997: Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Co-Authors "The Riverkeepers"
In 1997, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. worked with John Cronin to co-author "The Riverkeepers", a history of the early Riverkeepers and a primer for the Waterkeeper movement.
June 1999: Founding of Waterkeeper Alliance
In June 1999, inspired by the success of Riverkeeper on the Hudson, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and a group of Riverkeepers came together in Southampton, Long Island, to establish the Waterkeeper Alliance. This organization, with Kennedy as its President, grew to encompass 344 licensed Waterkeeper programs in 44 countries. The Alliance advocates for clean and healthy waterways globally, while also serving as a central hub for approving new Keeper programs and licensing the "Waterkeeper" trademark and its variations.
1999: Campaign to End Industrial Logging in Clayoquot Sound
In 1999, Kennedy concluded his work with five Vancouver Island Indian tribes in their campaign to end industrial logging by MacMillan Bloedel in Clayoquot Sound, British Columbia. This campaign started in 1993.
1999: Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Founds Waterkeeper Alliance
In 1999, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. founded the nonprofit environmental group Waterkeeper Alliance.
1999: Creation of Keeper Springs Bottled Water Company
In 1999, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., along with Chris Bartle and John Hoving, established Keeper Springs. This bottled water company was unique in that all its profits were directed to the Waterkeeper Alliance, supporting its mission of protecting waterways.
2000: Controversy Over Rehiring of William Wegner at Riverkeeper
In 2000, controversy arose at Riverkeeper over the rehiring of William Wegner, a convicted wildlife smuggler. Kennedy supported Wegner's rehiring, leading to the resignation of several board members.
2000: Campaign Against Factory Farms
Starting in 2000, Kennedy initiated legal action against factory farms in several states, including North Carolina, Oklahoma, Maryland, and Iowa. This marked a new phase in his nearly two-decade-long battle against pollution caused by these agricultural operations.
2000: Featured in "The Waterkeepers" documentary
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and his environmental work were highlighted in the 2000 documentary "The Waterkeepers", directed by Les Guthman.
2000: Consideration of a Senate Run
Kennedy contemplated running for political office in 2000 when New York Senator Daniel Patrick Moynihan decided not to seek reelection for the seat previously held by Kennedy's father. This marked a point where he considered following in his family's footsteps by pursuing a political career.
2000: Endorsement of Al Gore and Opposition to Ralph Nader's Green Party Campaign
During the 2000 presidential election, Kennedy endorsed Vice President Al Gore and actively campaigned against Ralph Nader's Green Party candidacy.
2000: Founding of Kennedy & Madonna, LLP
In 2000, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and environmental lawyer Kevin Madonna co-founded the environmental law firm Kennedy & Madonna, LLP. The firm focuses on representing individuals and organizations against environmental polluters.
2000: Opposition to Clifton Bay Development
In 2000, Kennedy assisted local activists in opposing a proposed hotel and resort development at Clifton Bay, New Providence Island, Bahamas. He argued the project, backed by Chaffin Light and Bechtel, threatened coral reefs and public beaches used by Bahamians.
2000: Campaign to Protect Laguna San Ignacio
In 2000, Kennedy and NRDC concluded their campaign to protect Laguna San Ignacio, a gray whale breeding and nursing ground in Baja, Mexico, from a proposed salt facility by Mitsubishi. This campaign started in 1996.
2000: Consideration for Environmental Positions in Democratic Administrations
As a prominent environmental lawyer in the 2000s, Kennedy was frequently linked to high-ranking environmental positions in Democratic administrations. He was considered for the role of White House Council on Environmental Quality chair under Al Gore in 2000.
April 11, 2001: Men's Journal "Heroes" Award
On April 11, 2001, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. was recognized by Men's Journal with the "Heroes" Award for his establishment of the Pace Environmental Litigation Clinic. This recognition, along with other accolades for impactful legal work focused on environmental cleanup, cemented the Pace Clinic as a model for similar initiatives across the nation.
2001: Thimerosal Removed from Childhood Vaccines
In 2001, thimerosal, a mercury-based preservative, was removed from all childhood vaccines for children under six years old, except for a few variations of flu and hepatitis vaccines.
2001: Kennedy's Personal Journal
It was reported that Mary Kathleen Richardson had read Kennedy's 2001 personal journal, which contained entries about his extramarital affairs.
2001: "Clean Coal is a Deadly Lie" Campaign
In 2001, Waterkeeper, under Kennedy's leadership, launched its "Clean Coal is a Deadly Lie" campaign. The campaign involved numerous lawsuits targeting mining practices like mountaintop removal, slurry pond construction, and mercury emissions and coal ash piles from coal-burning utilities. Waterkeeper also spearheaded the fight against coal export, particularly from Pacific Northwest terminals.
2001: Challenging Pollution from Industrial Farming
In 2001, Kennedy & Madonna assembled a team of top plaintiff law firms to address pollution stemming from industrial pork and poultry production.
2001: Lawsuit and Protest Against U.S. Navy in Vieques
In 2001, Kennedy sued the U.S. Navy on behalf of Vieques, Puerto Rico residents, to stop weapons testing, bombing, and military exercises. He argued that the activities were unnecessary and that the Navy had caused environmental and economic damage to the island. He was arrested for trespassing at Camp Garcia Vieques during a protest and served 30 days in prison. The protests and lawsuits ultimately led to the Bush administration ending naval bombing in Vieques.
2002: Campaign Against Macal River Dam
In 2002, Kennedy led an ultimately unsuccessful campaign against the construction of a dam on Belize's Macal River, which he considered wasteful. He initiated a high-profile legal challenge against Fortis Inc., a Canadian power company.
2002: Lawsuit by Smithfield Foods in Poland
In 2002, Smithfield Foods filed a lawsuit against Kennedy in Poland, where criticism of corporations was illegal, following Kennedy's denouncement of the company during a debate with its Polish director before the Polish parliament.
2003: Criticism of Bush's Hydrogen Car Initiative
In 2003, Kennedy criticized President Bush's hydrogen car initiative, arguing that it was a deceptive tactic to benefit the fossil fuel industry while masquerading as an environmentally friendly initiative.
2003: Criticism of U.S. Government as Polluter
In 2003, Kennedy criticized the U.S. federal government as "America's biggest polluter," singling out the Department of Defense for its environmental damage. He highlighted the EPA's findings of unexploded ordnance waste on military ranges, potentially containing biological or chemical weapons.
2003: Article in The Atlantic Monthly
In 2003, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. published an article in The Atlantic Monthly concerning the 1975 murder of Martha Moxley. He argued that his cousin, Michael Skakel, was wrongly convicted and that evidence pointed to Kenneth Littleton as the likely perpetrator.
2003: Publication of Critique on Bush's Environmental Record
Kennedy wrote an article in 2003 criticizing the Bush administration's environmental policies, which he later expanded into a bestselling book.
2003: Privy Council Ruling on Chalillo Dam
The Privy Council of the United Kingdom, in a 3-2 ruling in 2003, upheld the Belizean government's decision to allow the construction of the Chalillo Dam.
2004: Endorsement of John Kerry for President
In the 2004 presidential election, Kennedy endorsed John Kerry, highlighting Kerry's strong environmental record as a key reason for his support.
2004: Publication of "Saint Francis of Assisi: A Life of Joy"
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. published a biography of Saint Francis of Assisi in 2004, highlighting his admiration for the saint's life and teachings.
2004: Consideration for Environmental Positions in Democratic Administrations
In the 2004 presidential election, Kennedy was considered a potential candidate for the EPA administrator position under John Kerry.
2004: Featured in "Indian Point: Imagining the Unimaginable" Documentary
In 2004, Kennedy was featured in the documentary "Indian Point: Imagining the Unimaginable," directed by his sister, filmmaker Rory Kennedy. The documentary focused on the Indian Point nuclear power plant.
2004: Allegations of GOP Election Manipulation in 2004
In June 2006, Kennedy published an article in Rolling Stone alleging that the 2004 presidential election was stolen by GOP operatives for President George W. Bush. The claim was widely regarded as a conspiracy theory.
2004: Protest Against Magpie River Dams
In 2004, Kennedy met with provincial officials and brought international media and political figures to Canada to protest against the planned hydroelectric dams on Quebec's Magpie River.
2004: Securing Settlement for Contaminated Properties in Florida
In 2004, Kennedy & Madonna played a key role in a legal team that secured a $70 million settlement for property owners in Pensacola, Florida, whose properties were contaminated by chemicals from a nearby Superfund site.
June 2005: Kennedy Publishes "Deadly Immunity" Article Alleging Government Conspiracy
In June 2005, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. published the article "Deadly Immunity" in Rolling Stone and Salon, claiming a government conspiracy to suppress a connection between thimerosal and childhood neurodevelopmental disorders, including autism.
2005: Opposition to Cape Wind Project
In 2005, Kennedy clashed with national environmental groups due to his opposition to the Cape Wind Project, an offshore wind farm proposed for Nantucket Sound off the coast of Cape Cod, Massachusetts. He sided with the commercial fishing industry, arguing that the project was a costly and inefficient endeavor.
2005: Consideration of Running for New York Attorney General
In 2005, Kennedy considered entering the 2006 race for New York Attorney General, a position that might have pitted him against his then-brother-in-law, Andrew Cuomo. Despite being considered the front-runner, he decided not to pursue the position.
2005: Criticism of Bush Administration's Use of Torture
In 2005, Kennedy wrote an article for the Los Angeles Times denouncing President Bush's use of torture, which his uncle, Senator Ted Kennedy, entered into the Congressional Record.
2005: Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Begins Promoting Anti-Vaccine Misinformation
In 2005, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. began promoting anti-vaccine misinformation and public health conspiracy theories.
2005: Kennedy's Catholic Faith and Environmentalism
In 2005, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. was described as a devout Catholic who found inspiration in Saint Francis of Assisi's commitment to social justice and environmentalism. He saw environmental work as a form of spiritual work.
June 2006: Allegations of GOP Election Manipulation in 2004
In June 2006, Kennedy published an article in Rolling Stone suggesting that GOP operatives had rigged the 2004 presidential election in favor of George W. Bush. This claim was widely dismissed as a conspiracy theory by both Democrats and Republicans.
2006: Decision Against Running for New York Attorney General
After considering a run for New York Attorney General in 2005, Kennedy ultimately chose not to enter the race in 2006.
2007: Nomination for "Trial Lawyer of the Year"
In 2007, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. was a finalist for "Trial Lawyer of the Year" by Public Justice, for his contributions to a $396 million jury verdict against DuPont concerning contamination from its Spelter, West Virginia zinc plant.
2007: Endorsement of Hillary Clinton in Democratic Primaries
In late 2007, Kennedy and his sisters Kerry and Kathleen endorsed Hillary Clinton in the 2008 Democratic presidential primaries. This reflects his involvement in Democratic party politics and his support for specific candidates.
December 2, 2008: Declining Consideration for Senate Appointment
On December 2, 2008, Kennedy publicly stated that he did not wish to be appointed by New York Governor David Paterson to the US Senate seat expected to be vacated by Hillary Clinton. He prioritized family time over the demands of Senate service.
2008: Support for Barack Obama After Democratic Convention
Following the Democratic Convention, Kennedy actively campaigned for Barack Obama across the country. Although he initially endorsed Hillary Clinton in the primaries, he unified behind Obama as the Democratic nominee.
2008: Consideration for Environmental Positions in Democratic Administrations
Kennedy was also considered for the EPA administrator role under Barack Obama in the 2008 presidential election, highlighting his prominence in environmental circles and his potential for high-level government service.
2008: Appearance in "Grand Canyon Adventure: River at Risk"
In 2008, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. was featured in the IMAX documentary film "Grand Canyon Adventure: River at Risk." In the film, he journeys through the Grand Canyon in a wooden dory with his daughter, Kick, and anthropologist Wade Davis.
April 2, 2009: Recognition as a '100 Agent of Change' by Rolling Stone
On April 2, 2009, Kennedy was recognized by Rolling Stone as one of its '100 Agents of Change' for his vocal opposition to the Bush administration's environmental policies.
2009: Alleged Rejection of Qatar-Turkey Pipeline
In 2009, Syrian President Bashar al-Assad allegedly rejected a proposed Qatar-Turkey pipeline through Syria, according to purported WikiLeaks disclosures cited by Kennedy.
May 12, 2010: Divorce Filing from Mary Kathleen Richardson
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. filed for divorce from Mary Kathleen Richardson on May 12, 2010.
2010: Pace Lawsuit Forces ExxonMobil to Clean Up Oil Spills
In 2010, a Pace University School of Law lawsuit forced ExxonMobil to clean up tens of millions of gallons of oil from legacy refinery spills in Newtown Creek in Brooklyn, New York.
2010: Profiling in "Mann v. Ford" Documentary
Kennedy & Madonna, LLP, was profiled in the 2010 HBO documentary "Mann v. Ford." The film follows the firm's four-year legal battle representing the Ramapough Mountain Indians against the Ford Motor Company, alleging toxic waste dumping on tribal land. The case resulted in a monetary settlement for the tribe and the re-listing of the affected land on the federal Superfund list - a landmark event as it marked the first time a site was re-listed after being removed.
2010: Atrazine Study
A 2010 study by Hayes suggested that atrazine exposure could lead to feminization and hermaphroditism in frogs.
2010: Memory Loss and Mental Fog
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. began experiencing significant memory and cognitive issues in 2010.
June 2011: "The Last Mountain" Film Release
In June 2011, the film "The Last Mountain," co-written by Bill Haney and Peter Rhodes, was televised. The film depicted Kennedy's fight to stop Appalachian mountaintop removal mining.
October 2011: Co-founding of EcoWatch
In October 2011, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. co-founded EcoWatch, a website dedicated to providing news and information about environmental issues.
May 16, 2012: Death of Mary Kathleen Richardson
Mary Kathleen Richardson was found dead on May 16, 2012. Her death was ruled a suicide.
October 2012: Call for Environmentalist Focus on Congress and Criticism of Koch Brothers' Influence
In October 2012, Kennedy urged environmentalists to target their frustrations towards the US Congress rather than President Obama, citing the Congress' unprecedented partisan gridlock as a major obstacle to environmental progress. He also criticized the Koch brothers, owners of Koch Industries, for undermining democracy and prioritizing personal wealth over public well-being.
2012: Contribution to 'Billionaires and Ballot Bandits' on Election Hacking
In 2012, Kennedy wrote the introduction and a chapter in 'Billionaires and Ballot Bandits,' a book by Greg Palast that investigates election hacking. He has been outspoken about the vulnerability of voting systems and the threats posed by voter purges and voter ID laws.
2012: Court Deposition on Health Issues
In a 2012 court deposition, Kennedy attributed his neurological problems to a parasitic worm and mercury poisoning.
2012: Relationship with Cheryl Hines Begins
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Cheryl Hines began dating in 2012.
January 11, 2013: Interview with Charlie Rose
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and his sister Rory were interviewed by Charlie Rose on January 11, 2013, where they discussed their belief that John F. Kennedy's assassination was not the work of a lone gunman.
February 2013: Arrest for Keystone XL Pipeline Protest
In February 2013, Kennedy and his son, Conor, were arrested for blocking a street in front of the White House during a protest against the Keystone XL Pipeline.
May 2013: Kennedy Gives Keynote Address at Anti-Vaccination Conference
In May 2013, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. delivered the keynote speech at the AutismOne / Generation Rescue conference, an event centered around anti-vaccination viewpoints.
2013: Opposition to Fracking in New York State
In 2013, Kennedy played a key role in Governor Andrew Cuomo's decision to ban fracking in New York State. Despite his initial support for natural gas, Kennedy's investigations into fracking's public health, climate, and infrastructure costs led him to oppose the extraction method.
August 2, 2014: Marriage to Cheryl Hines
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. married actress Cheryl Hines on August 2, 2014.
2014: Emphasis on People Power in Combating Corporate Influence in Politics
During the 2014 People's Climate March, Kennedy highlighted the power of grassroots movements in countering the financial influence of corporations like Koch Industries in shaping climate policy. He stressed that people power is crucial to overcome the financial advantage wielded by those seeking to obstruct climate action.
2014: Kennedy Publishes Book on Thimerosal in Vaccines
In 2014, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. published "Thimerosal: Let the Science Speak: The Evidence Supporting the Immediate Removal of Mercury - a Known Neurotoxin - from Vaccines," advocating for the removal of thimerosal from vaccines.
2014: Views on Ukrainian Revolution and Donbas War
Kennedy stated his belief that the 2014 Ukrainian revolution was a U.S.-backed coup attempt and that the Ukrainian government committed atrocities against the Russian population in Donbas.
April 2015: Kennedy Promotes Film "Trace Amounts" and Makes Controversial Statement
In April 2015, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. participated in a Speakers' Forum to support the film "Trace Amounts," which advances the debunked notion of a link between autism and mercury present in vaccinations. During a screening, he made a controversial comparison, referring to the rise in autism cases as a "holocaust."
2015: Yukon Trip with Sons
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. took his sons to visit Mount Kennedy in Yukon, Canada, and run the Alsek River in 2015.
2015: Advocacy for Punishing Climate Change Skeptics
In 2015, Kennedy expressed his strong stance on climate change, stating that he "wished there were a law you could punish [politicians skeptical of global warming] under."
2015: Kennedy Joins Anti-Vaccine Advocacy Group
In 2015, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. joined the anti-vaccine advocacy group, Children's Health Defense, initially known as the World Mercury Project.
February 2016: "Why the Arabs Don't Want Us in Syria" Publication
In February 2016, Kennedy's article "Why the Arabs Don't Want Us in Syria" was published in Politico. He attributed the Syrian war to a pipeline conflict, citing alleged WikiLeaks disclosures that suggested the CIA incited a Sunni uprising against Syrian President Bashar al-Assad after he rejected a proposed Qatar-Turkey pipeline in 2009.
August 2016: Protest Against Dakota Access Pipeline
In August 2016, Kennedy and Waterkeeper joined protests against the Dakota Access Pipeline's extension across the Sioux Indian Standing Rock Reservation's water supply.
2016: Campaign Against Futaleufú River Dam
In 2016, Kennedy successfully campaigned against the construction of dams on Chile's Futaleufú River.
2016: Counsel to Morgan & Morgan
In 2016, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. became counsel to the law firm Morgan & Morgan. This partnership stemmed from the firms' successful collaboration on a case against SoCalGas Company after the Aliso Canyon gas leak in California.
2016: Publication of "Framed"
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. published "Framed: Why Michael Skakel Spent over a Decade in Prison for a Murder He Didn't Commit" in 2016, further detailing his belief in his cousin's innocence.
2016: Opposition to Damming the Futaleufú River
In 2016, Kennedy contributed to the successful campaign to stop the damming of the Futaleufú River in the Patagonia region of Chile. The Spanish power company Endesa, which had rights to dam the river, reversed its decision due to pressure from the campaign.
2016: Speaking at SXSW Eco Conference
At the 2016 SXSW Eco environment conference in Austin, Texas, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. spoke about the unequal burden of environmental pollution on underprivileged communities. He stated, "Polluters always choose the soft target of poverty," highlighting that Chicago's south side has the most concentrated toxic waste dumps in America. He further emphasized that 80 percent of "uncontrolled toxic waste dumps" are situated in Black neighborhoods, with the largest such site in the United States located in Emelle, Alabama, which is 90 percent Black.
January 10, 2017: Kennedy Meets with Trump to Discuss Vaccine Safety Task Force
On January 10, 2017, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. met with then President-elect Donald Trump to discuss a potential position within the Trump administration, specifically the chairmanship of a Vaccine Safety Task Force.
February 15, 2017: Kennedy and De Niro Host Press Conference on Vaccination Science
On February 15, 2017, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., joined by actor Robert De Niro, held a press conference at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C. During the event, they accused the media of aligning with the vaccination industry and stifling open discussions on vaccination science, even offering a $100,000 reward to anyone who could present evidence supporting the safety of mercury injections in babies and pregnant women.
June 2017: Criticism of Oil Industry Subsidies and Infrastructure Investment
In June 2017, Kennedy stated his belief that the oil industry maintains its competitiveness against renewable energy and electric vehicles primarily due to substantial direct and indirect subsidies and political support. He highlighted the industry's strategy of extensive pipeline construction to increase infrastructure investment, making it harder for the country to transition away from oil.
August 2017: Kennedy Meets with Federal Public Health Regulators to Discuss Vaccine Safety Science
In August 2017, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. engaged in meetings with federal public health regulators, at the request of the White House, to address concerns regarding perceived flaws in vaccine safety science.
October 5, 2017: Completion of Advanced Flow Battery Installation
On October 5, 2017, Vionx, a Massachusetts-based company on whose board Robert F. Kennedy Jr. sits, completed the installation of advanced flow batteries at Holy Name High School in Worcester, Massachusetts. This project, a collaboration involving National Grid, the U.S. Department of Energy, Siemens, and the United Technologies Research Center, resulted in one of the largest energy storage facilities in Massachusetts.
November 2017: Endesa Abandons HydroAysen Project
In November 2017, the Spanish hydroelectric company Endesa decided to scrap the HydroAysen project, which involved constructing dams on numerous rivers in Patagonia and extensive infrastructure development. They returned the water rights to the Chilean government. Advocacy by Kennedy and Riverkeeper is recognized as a significant factor in the company's decision.
December 2017: Meeting with Sirhan Sirhan
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. visited Sirhan Sirhan in prison in December 2017 and expressed his support for a reinvestigation into the assassination of his father, Robert F. Kennedy.
2017: Securing Settlement for Contaminated Drinking Water
In 2017, Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s firm was part of a legal team that secured a $670 million settlement for over 3,000 residents of Ohio and West Virginia. Their drinking water had been contaminated with perfluorooctanoic acid, a toxic chemical released into the environment by DuPont in Parkersburg, West Virginia.
2017: Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Resigns from Pace's Environmental Litigation Clinic
In 2017, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. resigned from his role as supervising attorney and co-director of the Environmental Litigation Clinic at Pace University School of Law, a position he held since the Clinic's founding in 1987.
2017: Lawsuits Against Monsanto
In 2017, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and his partners at Morgan & Morgan initiated legal action against Monsanto in federal court in San Francisco. They represented plaintiffs alleging that exposure to Monsanto's glyphosate-based herbicide, Roundup, caused their non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. Kennedy's team also filed a class action lawsuit against Monsanto for allegedly failing to adequately warn consumers about the risks associated with Roundup exposure.
2017: Advocated for Replacing Indian Point Power with Renewable Energy
In 2017, Kennedy argued that the electricity generated by the Indian Point nuclear power plant could be entirely replaced by renewable energy sources.
2017: Hydro-Québec Cancels Magpie River Dams
Hydro-Québec abandoned its plans for dams on Quebec's Magpie River in 2017.
2017: Film Rights for "Framed"
FX Productions acquired the rights to adapt Kennedy's book "Framed" into a television series in 2017.
2017: Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Resigns from Riverkeeper
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. resigned from Riverkeeper in 2017.
January 2018: Resignation from EcoWatch Board
In January 2018, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. resigned from his position on the board of directors of EcoWatch.
September 2018: Class-Action Lawsuit Against Columbia Gas
In September 2018, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and his partners filed a class-action lawsuit against Columbia Gas of Massachusetts. The lawsuit alleged negligence following gas explosions in three towns north of Boston. Kennedy criticized Columbia Gas, stating that they were prioritizing new pipeline construction while neglecting the maintenance of their existing infrastructure, which had become dilapidated and prone to failures.
2018: Children's Health Defense Identified as Major Buyer of Anti-Vaccine Facebook Ads
In late 2018, Children's Health Defense, led by Robert F. Kennedy Jr., was identified as one of the two primary purchasers of anti-vaccine advertising on Facebook.
2018: Skakel's Conviction Vacated
Michael Skakel's conviction was overturned in 2018.
2018: Two Samoan Infants Die After Receiving MMR Vaccine and Muscle Relaxant
In 2018, two Samoan infants died after receiving the MMR vaccine and, mistakenly, a muscle relaxant. Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and anti-vaccine activist Taylor Winterstein falsely attributed the deaths to the MMR vaccine.
2018: Kennedy's Views on the Church's Role
In 2018, Kennedy expressed his belief that the Catholic Church should promote justice and kindness globally, drawing inspiration from figures like Pope John XXIII.
May 8, 2019: Open Letter from Family Members
On May 8, 2019, several of Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s family members, including Kathleen Kennedy Townsend, Joseph P. Kennedy, and Maeve Kennedy McKean, published an open letter expressing their concerns about his anti-vaccination activism and the spread of misinformation. They acknowledged his past work on important causes but criticized his role in promoting distrust in vaccines.
June 4, 2019: Kennedy Fuels Vaccine Hesitancy in Samoa
On June 4, 2019, during a visit to Samoa for its 57th independence celebration, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. was photographed with anti-vaccine activist Taylor Winterstein. Both Kennedy's charity and Winterstein have promoted the unfounded claim that the MMR vaccine contributed to the deaths of two Samoan infants in 2018, even though investigations revealed the infants were mistakenly administered a muscle relaxant alongside the vaccine. Kennedy's actions faced criticism for exacerbating vaccine hesitancy during a period marked by measles outbreaks in Samoa and Tonga in 2019.
2019: Baseline Year for Carbon Emissions Comparison
2019 served as the baseline year for comparing carbon emissions from electricity generation in New York state before and after the closure of the Indian Point nuclear power plant.
2019: Kennedy Listed as Executive Producer of Anti-Vaccination Documentary
In 2019, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. was listed as an executive producer for the anti-vaccination documentary, "Vaxxed II: The People's Truth," a sequel to the first "Vaxxed" film by Andrew Wakefield and Del Bigtree.
2019: Children's Health Defense Identified as Major Buyer of Anti-Vaccine Facebook Ads
In early 2019, Children's Health Defense, led by Robert F. Kennedy Jr., was identified as one of the two primary purchasers of anti-vaccine advertising on Facebook.
August 2020: Interview with Alec Baldwin and Spread of Misinformation
In August 2020, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. participated in an hour-long interview with actor Alec Baldwin on Instagram, where he made a number of incorrect and misleading claims about vaccines and public health measures related to the COVID-19 pandemic.
August 29, 2020: Speech at Berlin Demonstration
On August 29, 2020, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. appeared as a speaker at a demonstration in Berlin, where populist groups protested against COVID-19 restrictions. The demonstration was partially violent.
November 2020: Resignation from Waterkeeper Alliance
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. stepped down from his role as president of the Waterkeeper Alliance in November 2020.
December 30, 2020: Open Letter from Kerry Kennedy Meltzer
On December 30, 2020, Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s niece, Kerry Kennedy Meltzer, a physician, wrote an open letter criticizing her uncle's dissemination of misinformation about COVID-19 vaccines. She specifically called out his claims regarding the alleged side effects of the vaccines.
2020: Foreword to "Plague of Corruption"
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. wrote the foreword for the 2020 book "Plague of Corruption" by Judy Mikovits, a former research scientist known for promoting anti-vaccine conspiracy theories.
2020: Decision Against Retrial
Prosecutors chose not to pursue a new trial against Michael Skakel in 2020.
2020: Kennedy Criticized for Using Environmental Activism to Bolster Anti-Vaccination Movement
In 2020, the Center for Countering Digital Hate asserted that Robert F. Kennedy Jr. exploits his standing as an environmental activist to promote the anti-vaccination movement, often participating in online discussions with individuals like Andrew Wakefield, Del Bigtree, and Rashid Buttar, who hold discredited views on vaccines.
2020: Criticism of the Carbon Industry and Unsustainable Economic Systems
In 2020, Kennedy critiqued the existing economic system, calling it unsustainable and driven by a "deadly addiction to coal and oil." He argued that market rules, written by "carbon incumbents," prioritize polluting industries over clean and sustainable alternatives.
February 2021: Instagram Account Suspension
In February 2021, Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s Instagram account was blocked for "repeatedly sharing debunked claims about the coronavirus or vaccines." This action was taken due to his persistent promotion of misinformation regarding the pandemic.
February 2021: Kennedy's Instagram Account Deleted for Spreading Vaccine Misinformation
In February 2021, Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s Instagram account was removed for repeatedly disseminating debunked claims concerning COVID-19 vaccines.
March 2021: Kennedy Identified as Major Source of Anti-Vaccine Content on Social Media
In March 2021, The Center for Countering Digital Hate identified Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as one of twelve individuals responsible for up to 65% of the anti-vaccine content circulating on Facebook and Twitter.
March 2021: Release of "Medical Racism: The New Apartheid" Video
In early March 2021, Children's Health Defense, an organization led by Robert F. Kennedy Jr., released a video titled "Medical Racism: The New Apartheid." The video promotes COVID-19 conspiracy theories and falsely claims that vaccination efforts are a form of medical experimentation on Black people.
September 2021: YouTube Account Removal
In late September 2021, Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s YouTube account was removed for violating the platform's policies on vaccine misinformation. This action followed the implementation of new rules by YouTube aimed at curbing the spread of false information about vaccines.
November 2021: Publication of "The Real Anthony Fauci"
In November 2021, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. published his book "The Real Anthony Fauci: Bill Gates, Big Pharma, and the Global War on Democracy and Public Health." The book makes numerous allegations against Dr. Anthony Fauci, including claims of sabotaging AIDS treatments, violating federal laws, and conspiring with Bill Gates to suppress information about COVID-19 cures.
2021: Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Publishes "The Real Anthony Fauci"
In 2021, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. published the book "The Real Anthony Fauci," which promoted further COVID-19 misinformation.
2021: Citing of a Study on COVID-19 and Racial Differences
In 2021, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. referenced a study that he claimed showed that COVID-19 disproportionately affected certain races due to genetic differences. He used this study to further his arguments about the virus being ethnically targeted, despite the study itself not supporting such claims.
January 23, 2022: Controversial Speech at Anti-Vaccination Rally
On January 23, 2022, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. made a controversial statement comparing COVID-19 restrictions to Nazi Germany during a speech at an anti-vaccination rally in Washington, D.C. His remarks drew sharp criticism, including from the Auschwitz Memorial, for trivializing the Holocaust.
2022: Claims About Donbas War Casualties
Kennedy made inaccurate claims about the Donbas War (2014-2022), alleging that all 14,000 casualties were Russians and that Russians in the region were systematically killed by the Ukrainian government.
2022: Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Publishes "A Letter to Liberals"
In 2022, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. published "A Letter to Liberals".
2022: Carbon Emissions Increase After Indian Point Closure
Following the closure of the Indian Point nuclear power plant in 2022, carbon emissions from electricity generation in New York state increased by 37% compared to 2019, before the plant began shutting down.
2022: Criticism of the Biden Administration's Role in the 2022 Ukraine Invasion
In 2022, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. expressed his belief that the Biden administration's actions, particularly regarding NATO expansion, contributed to the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine. He clarified that this criticism does not equate to support for the Putin regime, which he vehemently opposes due to its beliefs and policies.
March 3, 2023: Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Considers Presidential Run
On March 3, 2023, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced his consideration of a presidential run in the 2024 election, revealing that he had secured approval from his wife.
April 5, 2023: Kennedy Files for Democratic Presidential Nomination
On April 5, 2023, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. officially filed his candidacy for the Democratic presidential nomination, marking the entry of the fifth member from his family to seek the presidency of the United States.
June 2023: Reinstatement of Instagram Account
In June 2023, Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s Instagram account was reinstated after being previously suspended for spreading misinformation. This decision followed a period of platform scrutiny and policy changes related to content moderation.
June 2023: Advocacy for Reduced Military Presence Abroad
In June 2023, Kennedy expressed his belief that the U.S. should significantly reduce its military presence in other countries, advocating for the closure of U.S. bases worldwide.
June 2023: Podcast Interview with Jordan Peterson
During a June 2023 podcast interview with Jordan Peterson, Kennedy suggested a potential link between atrazine in water supplies and gender dysphoria in children, citing a 2010 study on frogs. The interview was removed by YouTube for violating its misinformation policy.
July 2023: Controversial Remarks on COVID-19 and Ethnicity
In July 2023, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. made controversial statements suggesting that COVID-19 was "ethnically targeted" to attack certain groups, particularly Caucasians and Black people, while sparing others like Ashkenazi Jews and Chinese individuals. These remarks were widely condemned as racist and anti-Semitic, drawing criticism from organizations like the American Jewish Committee and the Anti-Defamation League.
October 9, 2023: Kennedy Announces Independent Presidential Run
On October 9, 2023, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. declared his intention to run for president as an independent candidate.
November 2023: Petition for JFK Assassination Documents Release
In November 2023, Kennedy launched a petition for the release of remaining classified documents related to the assassination of his uncle, President John F. Kennedy.
December 2023: Defense of Israel
In December 2023, Kennedy engaged in a heated discussion with Krystal Ball, host of Breaking Points, which was recognized as a significant defense of Israel since the start of the 2023 Israel–Hamas war.
2023: Criticism of Erosion of Middle Class
In 2023, Kennedy stated his belief that American politicians are "systematically hollowing out the American middle class and printing money to make billionaires richer." He believes the financial industry and the military–industrial complex are being funded at the expense of the middle class, leading to a weakened economy.
2023: Support for the Green New Deal, Agrarian Movements, and Opposition to Geoengineering and Nuclear Energy
In 2023, Kennedy declared his support for the Green New Deal and expressed his intent to implement it. He criticized geoengineering as a profit-driven scheme by corporations and voiced opposition to nuclear energy, deeming it too expensive and unsafe. He believes it's primarily promoted by corporate lobbyists rather than genuine environmental advocates. He also advocated for agrarian movements, emphasizing the importance of widespread land ownership by farmers for a thriving democracy.
2024: Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Runs for President
In 2024, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced his candidacy for President of the United States as an Independent.
2024: Clarification on Gender Dysphoria Stance
In response to criticism, a spokesperson for Kennedy's 2024 presidential campaign clarified that he was not attributing gender dysphoria solely to endocrine disruptors but was calling for further research.
2024: Potential Presidential Run
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. considered running for president in 2024.