Robert F. Kennedy Jr. made a bold statement this week, declaring his intention to slash the military budget in half by the end of his first term as president. The independent presidential candidate emphasized that the United States should scale back its global involvement and redirect a significant portion of security funds towards domestic programs.
During a speech at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library in California, Mr. Kennedy criticized the excessive military spending that he believes is draining the country’s resources. He highlighted the neglect of pressing domestic issues due to an unwavering focus on projecting strength internationally. Mr. Kennedy painted a somber picture of America’s decline over the past six decades and proposed a new vision for the country’s role in global affairs.
Advocating for a reduced global footprint, Mr. Kennedy urged a shift in priorities towards investing in domestic initiatives. He urged Americans to prepare for a multipolar world where other powerful nations like China and Russia would exert greater influence, challenging America’s status as the sole superpower. According to Mr. Kennedy, clinging to past notions of supremacy comes at a steep cost and impedes progress.
While global military spending is on the rise, fueled in part by recent events such as Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Mr. Kennedy’s proposal to drastically cut national security expenditure sets him apart from traditional political discourse. As an independent candidate, he faces an uphill battle in rallying support in Congress, where there is typically strong backing for military funding. The current defense budget for 2025 stands at around $895 billion, with discussions underway for further increases by both Democrats and Republicans.
Mr. Kennedy’s stance challenges the status quo and prompts a reevaluation of America’s role in the world. By advocating for a significant reduction in military spending and a shift towards addressing domestic needs, he presents a unique perspective on national security and global engagement. As the political landscape continues to evolve, Mr. Kennedy’s proposal sparks a conversation on the allocation of resources and the future direction of US foreign policy.