On September 7, 2025, Jack Schlossberg, the only grandson of President John F. Kennedy, publicly announced his exploration of a congressional run in New York’s 12th District, setting the stage for a potential political showdown with his uncle, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who is also reportedly considering a bid for the same seat. Schlossberg, a 32-year-old attorney and rising Democratic star, wasted no time in criticizing RFK Jr., the current Health and Human Services Secretary, for his controversial political stances and recent actions. The ensuing response from RFK Jr., delivered via a pointed social media post, stunned Schlossberg and intensified the already public Kennedy family feud, captivating political observers and igniting debates across platforms like X.

Schlossberg’s announcement came shortly after Rep. Jerry Nadler’s decision to retire, leaving the Manhattan-based congressional seat open for a high-profile contest. In a series of posts on X, Schlossberg sharply criticized RFK Jr., accusing him of abandoning the Kennedy family’s legacy of progressive values. “My uncle’s anti-vaccine rhetoric and conspiracy theories are a betrayal of everything my grandfather stood for,” Schlossberg wrote, referencing RFK Jr.’s controversial tenure at the Department of Health and Human Services, where he has pushed for significant changes at the CDC. Schlossberg, known for his vocal support of Democratic causes and his endorsement of President Joe Biden in 2024, positioned his potential candidacy as a defense of the Kennedy legacy, emphasizing public service, science, and unity. He also took aim at RFK Jr.’s alignment with former President Donald Trump, calling it “a disgrace to our family’s name.”

The criticism echoed Schlossberg’s earlier attacks on RFK Jr., including a 2024 Instagram video where he called his uncle’s presidential bid “an embarrassment” and accused him of exploiting the Kennedy name for personal gain. These remarks, coupled with his latest comments, reflect a deep rift within the Kennedy family, with other members, including Caroline Kennedy, RFK Jr.’s cousin and Schlossberg’s mother, also distancing themselves from RFK Jr.’s political maneuvers. Caroline Kennedy recently labeled RFK Jr. a “predator” in a letter to senators, further highlighting the family’s disapproval of his actions.

RFK Jr.’s response, posted on X on September 7, 2025, was swift and biting. “Jack, I respect your passion, but you’re out of your depth,” he wrote. “The Kennedy legacy isn’t about blind loyalty to a party—it’s about truth and courage, something you might learn if you step out of the echo chamber.” He went on to defend his record, claiming his work at HHS is “saving lives” by challenging pharmaceutical companies and promoting transparency. The post, which garnered over 500,000 views within hours, concluded with a personal jab: “Focus on your own path, Jack. The adults are working.” Sources close to Schlossberg report that the response left him momentarily stunned, with no immediate public rebuttal, fueling speculation that RFK Jr.’s words had hit a nerve.

The exchange has sparked a firestorm online, with X users divided over the family drama. Some praised Schlossberg for standing up to RFK Jr.’s controversial views, with one user writing, “Jack’s right—RFK Jr. is tarnishing the Kennedy name with his nonsense.” Others rallied behind RFK Jr., arguing that his willingness to challenge the establishment embodies the Kennedy spirit. “Jack’s just another elitist Democrat,” one post read. “RFK Jr. is the real rebel.” The feud has also drawn attention to the generational divide within the Kennedy family, with Schlossberg representing a younger, more progressive faction, while RFK Jr.’s independent streak appeals to a different audience.

The potential congressional race in New York’s 12th District promises to be one of the most watched in recent memory. Schlossberg, with his polished social media presence and Kennedy pedigree, is seen as a formidable candidate, but RFK Jr.’s name recognition and controversial platform could complicate the race. Political analysts note that the district, a Democratic stronghold, is likely to favor Schlossberg’s traditional liberal platform, but RFK Jr.’s outsider appeal could attract voters disillusioned with establishment politics. The open seat, combined with the Kennedy family’s storied history, has turned the race into a microcosm of broader debates about legacy, ideology, and the future of American politics.

As the saga unfolds, questions linger about whether Schlossberg will formally declare his candidacy and how RFK Jr.’s potential run will impact his role in the Trump administration. For now, the public clash between the two Kennedys has captivated the nation, with many awaiting Schlossberg’s next move. Will he respond to his uncle’s sharp rebuke, or will he let his campaign plans speak for themselves? One thing is certain: this family feud is far from over, and its outcome could reshape the Kennedy legacy for years to come.