(NewsNation) — Nicole Shanahan, former running mate of Robert F. Kennedy Jr., said Monday she supported the partnership between Donald Trump and Kennedy, citing shared priorities and a desire to form a “coalition government.”
Shanahan, a prominent donor who previously supported Democrats, said the decision came after a year of campaigning across the nation and listening to Americans’ concerns.
“We found somebody who was willing to put these ideas on center stage,” Shanahan said on NewsNation’s “CUOMO” about Kennedy ending his bid.
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Kennedy suspended his independent campaign for the White House and endorsed Trump on Friday.
Shanahan, a California lawyer, said there was an agreement with Trump on issues including free speech, anti-war policies and addressing chronic health problems.
She criticized the Democrats for spending a large amount of money to “take out third parties,” specifically mentioning PACs designed for this purpose.
The tech entrepreneur outlined key areas of overlap between Kennedy’s campaign and Trump’s platform, including ending “endless wars” and prioritizing American interests.
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The philanthropist expressed optimism about the partnership, stating, “This is not us being absorbed into the Trump camp by any measure. This is a meeting of the minds with strong boundaries and expectations.”
She also highlighted the importance of addressing the chronic health crisis in America, calling it a central issue for their campaign.
The entrepreneur stated that she had previously given over $100 million to help elect Democrats but was frustrated with her inability to get her message through to the party, particularly regarding issues like farmer support.
She said, “I have taken this message for years to the Democratic Party, and I cannot get through to anybody.”
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When questioned about Trump’s past policies, particularly Operation Warp Speed, Shanahan acknowledged disagreements but praised Trump’s willingness to listen and adapt. She suggested that with Kennedy’s influence, there would be “the best partnership around health this country has ever seen.”
Shanahan did not confirm any specific roles for Kennedy or herself in a potential Trump administration. Last week, she entertained the idea that Kennedy could join Trump’s administration as secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services.
“With Bobby by his side, we’re going to have the best partnership around health this country has ever seen,” Shanahan told NewsNation. “Bobby and Trump have their own relationship. I fully endorse it. I would love to see this as a true coalition government.”
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
