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Why RFK Jr. turned away from Democrats and backed Trump

Season 2025 Episode 48 | 6m 56s

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is caught in daily clashes with people who think he is destroying science, including members of his own family, and those who think he is saving it. But as he takes on the medical establishment, what led to his decision to turn away from Democrats, the party of his famous father and uncle, to become a backer of President Trump?

Major funding for “Washington Week with The Atlantic” is provided by Consumer Cellular, Otsuka, Kaiser Permanente, the Yuen Foundation, and the Corporation for Public Broadcasting.
Extras
Trump's mixed messages and shifting goals in the Iran war
Is Trump’s war of choice becoming a war of necessity?
Full Washington Week with the Atlantic broadcast from March 27, 2026.
Full Washington Week with the Atlantic broadcast from March 20, 2026.
What does winning a war with unclear objectives look like?
Trump faces growing opposition to Iran war from NATO allies and his MAGA base
What leverage Iran may have as U.S. war continues
How rising oil prices could impact Trump's next moves on Iran
Full Washington Week with the Atlantic broadcast from March 13, 2026.
Full Washington Week with the Atlantic broadcast from March 6, 2026.