RFK Jr. Urged Iowa Libertarian to Quit 1 House Race, Challenger Says

3 articles · Updated · POLITICO · Jun 15

Marco Battaglia said Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. urged him to withdraw from Iowa’s 3rd District race, where Republicans fear a Libertarian candidacy could siphon conservative votes from Rep. Zach Nunn.
June 7 is central to the dispute: Battaglia says Nunn visited his home, offered to fly him to Washington and “hang out with Robert Kennedy Jr.” if he stepped aside; Nunn’s campaign denies any offer or inducement.
Nunn’s team said it kept stakeholders, including the White House, informed of its concerns but did not request action and learned of Kennedy’s call only after Battaglia reported it.
Iowa’s 3rd is a top Democratic target after Nunn won by fewer than 4 points in 2024, and Republicans have already spent nearly $4.5 million defending the seat.