Robert F. Kennedy Jr., environmental activist and presidential candidate, confirmed on Saturday that he is under federal investigation for an incident involving the decapitation of a whale that occurred two decades ago. Speaking at a campaign event in Arizona hosted by former President Donald Trump, Kennedy described the probe as part of the “weaponization of our government” against political adversaries.
Kennedy addressed the crowd in Glendale, stating, “They’re now looking into something that happened 20 years ago when I collected a whale specimen that washed ashore in Massachusetts.” The incident came to light after Kennedy’s daughter, Kick Kennedy, revealed in a 2012 Town & Country Magazine interview that her father had cut off the whale’s head after it washed up on the beach. The National Marine Fisheries Institute has reportedly urged the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to launch a formal investigation into the matter.
Kennedy’s whale encounter is just the latest in a series of bizarre incidents linked to his wildlife dealings. In the early 2000s, he acknowledged dumping a dead bear cub in New York City’s Central Park, sparking public outcry. At the time, Kennedy claimed he was trying to protect the animal from further harm, but the action raised questions about his methods and judgment regarding wildlife conservation.
The current whale investigation comes amid Kennedy’s controversial presidential campaign, in which he has positioned himself as a defender of civil liberties and an opponent of what he calls the overreach of federal agencies. His comments in Glendale reflected his belief that the investigation is politically motivated. “This is just another example of how our government is being used as a weapon against people like me who speak the truth and stand up to the establishment,” Kennedy told supporters.
While the decapitated whale incident happened years ago, it has resurfaced as Kennedy’s presidential bid gains attention. Critics point to the incident as an example of reckless behavior, particularly for someone who has built much of his public persona around environmental advocacy. However, his supporters view the investigation as a distraction aimed at damaging his political credibility.
The National Marine Fisheries Institute and NOAA have not issued public statements regarding the investigation, but sources close to the inquiry suggest that the collection of whale parts without proper permits could lead to legal consequences under the Marine Mammal Protection Act. The act strictly regulates the handling of marine mammals, including whales, and prohibits their killing, capture, or harassment without authorization.
Kennedy’s long-standing history of environmental activism has made him a polarizing figure. He has been involved in various conservation efforts but has also faced criticism for his controversial views on vaccine mandates, government regulations, and, now, his handling of protected wildlife. Despite these controversies, Kennedy remains a prominent figure in the anti-establishment political movement, drawing large crowds at campaign events and receiving support from some high-profile political allies, including Trump.
As the investigation unfolds, Kennedy’s legal team is expected to challenge the validity of the inquiry, arguing that it is part of a broader attempt to silence his political voice. Nevertheless, the incident is certain to remain a topic of discussion as Kennedy continues his unconventional campaign.
