American Values 2024 Super PAC Airs $7 Million Ad During Super Bowl

On Sunday, during Super Bowl LVIII, the American Values 2024 super PAC, supporting the independent candidacy of Robert F. Kennedy Jr., aired a 30-second ad highlighting the presidential hopeful's campaign.

The Ad

The vintage-themed ad featured slogans, clips, and a jingle invoking the legacy of Kennedy's uncle, former President John F. Kennedy. Confirming the ad's cost, super PAC co-founder Tony Lyons told CBS News that it totaled $7 million.

Kennedy's Response

In response to the ad, Kennedy expressed regret for any distress caused to his family in a post on social media. He clarified that the American Values Super PAC independently created and aired the ad without his campaign's involvement or approval, as per FEC rules prohibiting Super PACs from consulting with the candidate or their staff. Kennedy's press secretary, Stefanie Spear, stated that the campaign was pleasantly surprised and grateful for the ad's national exposure during the Super Bowl, reaching over 100 million Americans. Despite this nationwide visibility, Kennedy has only officially qualified for the ballot in Utah, having met the signature threshold on Jan. 23, with additional paperwork in progress.

DNC Complaint

Nevertheless, the Democratic National Committee (DNC) filed an FEC complaint against Kennedy's campaign and his super PAC, alleging collusion to secure his ballot placement. DNC spokesperson Alex Floyd disparaged Kennedy, labeling him as a Trump ally and insinuating ulterior motives in his candidacy. In response, Lyons defended Kennedy, characterizing him as a corruption-fighter and denouncing the DNC's attempts to impede his campaign.

Familial Disapproval

However, Kennedy's independent bid has faced criticism from his own family members. Several siblings issued a statement in October 2023, deeming his decision to run as an independent "dangerous to the country." As the race for the presidency unfolds, it seems that controversies and confrontations will continue to shape the political landscape, with ad campaigns, ballot qualifications, and familial disapproval all contributing to the narrative surrounding Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s independent candidacy.