Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the former independent presidential candidate and environmental activist, is currently under investigation by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) for allegedly collecting a whale specimen two decades ago. The investigation has resurfaced an old incident involving Kennedy and his family, which has garnered significant attention and criticism.
Background of the Incident
The incident dates back to when Kennedy's daughter, Kathleen 'Kick' Kennedy, was six years old. In a 2012 interview with Town and Country , Kick recounted that her father used a chainsaw to detach the head of a dead whale that had washed up on a beach near their family home in Cape Cod. He then secured the whale's head to the roof of their car using bungee cords and transported it back to New York.
Kick described the journey as particularly unpleasant, stating that every time they accelerated on the highway, whale fluids would spill into the car windows, creating a 'most repugnant smell imaginable.' The family members wore plastic bags over their heads with holes cut out for their mouths to protect themselves from the fluids.
The story resurfaced last month after Kennedy suspended his presidential campaign and endorsed former President Donald Trump. Following this endorsement, an environmental organization called for federal authorities to investigate the matter, citing concerns over potential interference with scientific research efforts.
NOAA's Investigation
NOAA confirmed the investigation on Monday, stating that they are looking into the matter but refrained from providing further details due to a policy against discussing ongoing investigations. A spokesperson for NOAA Fisheries confirmed that the agency is scrutinizing Kennedy regarding this incident.
Kennedy himself revealed the existence of the investigation during a campaign event in Arizona, stating that he received a letter from the National Marine Fisheries Service indicating that they were investigating him for collecting a whale specimen 20 years ago.
While Kennedy neither confirmed nor denied the incident involving the whale's head, he suggested that the inquiry is related to his support for Trump and accused the agency of misusing government power against political opponents.
Kennedy's Response and Criticism
Kennedy has been critical of the media's focus on this incident, describing it as 'sensational gossip.' He emphasized his commitment to serious policy matters and refrained from elaborating on the whale matter further.
However, environmental groups have been vocal about their concerns. The Center for Biological Diversity Action Fund urged NOAA to investigate, arguing that collecting or keeping parts of endangered species is illegal and can interfere with vital research opportunities.
This incident adds to a list of peculiar episodes surrounding Kennedy and deceased animals. He has previously faced backlash for claiming he once placed a young deceased bear in Central Park, intending to skin it for meat, which is illegal under New York State law.
Conclusion
The investigation into Robert F. Kennedy Jr. highlights the complexities of balancing personal actions with public scrutiny and the legal implications of handling wildlife specimens. As the case unfolds, it remains to be seen how this incident will impact Kennedy's political career and public image.
