(Gray News) – Robert F. Kennedy Jr. apologized Tuesday after a video was posted online showing part of a private phone call between the independent presidential candidate and Republican former President Trump.
The video shows Kennedy listening on speakerphone as Trump shares disproven claims about childhood vaccines, an issue that has helped Kennedy amass a loyal following among people who reject the scientific consensus that the benefits far outweigh the risk of rare complications.
Trump also appears to pitch Kennedy on endorsing his campaign, the Associated Press reported.
“I would love you to do so,” Trump tells Kennedy. “And I think it’ll be so good for you and so big for you. And we’re going to win.”
The video of the phone call was shared on social media by Kennedy’s son, Robert Kennedy III.
The call reportedly took place on Sunday, the day after Trump was injured during an assassination attempt at a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.
As a candidate, Kennedy has repeatedly made false claims about the safety and efficacy of vaccines.
All vaccines that are approved or authorized for use have been proven safe and effective through rigorous scientific studies. Severe reactions are exceedingly rare, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said the benefits far outweigh the risks.
The World Health Organization said vaccines prevent more than 4 million deaths every year.
On Monday, Kennedy and Trump met in person in Milwaukee, which is where the Republican National Convention is being held this week.
According to Kennedy’s campaign spokesperson, the two discussed “national unity” during the meeting.
Copyright 2024 Gray Local Media, Inc. All rights reserved. CNN Newsource and the Associated Press contributed to this report.
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