Olivia Nuzzi, a controversial political journalist, reportedly told Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. that he was the “best candidate” in the 2024 presidential race. In a “strategy memo” she allegedly composed for him, she even offered advice on his attire for various events.
This memo, shared on Telos News Substack by Nuzzi’s former fiancée, Ryan Rizza, appears to illustrate how she blurred the lines between journalism and political strategy during their affair.
The memo, which is somewhat scattered in its thoughts, provided guidance to Kennedy, who is 71, on how to navigate the upcoming debate against Donald Trump and then-President Joe Biden—an event from which he was excluded due to low polling numbers.
“It’s frustrating and unfair that CNN and the political parties have conspired to leave you out, but you need to accept the situation for what it is,” she advised before diving into tactical suggestions.
In her advice, she noted, “It’s not like Naomi Wolf is consulting for Al Gore, but here’s what I wear: a suit—different from Gore’s summer blue—and a standard thin tie. This helps create a sense of plausibility and control.” Ultimately, she was trying to convey that he should be seen as a contender, likening him to Rocky facing off against competitors.
Insights into Olivia Nuzzi and RFK Jr.’s affair
- Olivia Nuzzi, a noted political reporter for New York Magazine, has been placed on administrative leave following allegations of a “sexting” relationship with Robert F. Kennedy Jr.
- She acknowledged having a non-physical “personal relationship” with him.
- After writing a profile on Kennedy in November 2023, their affair reportedly began afterwards.
- Nuzzi’s engagement with Politico correspondent Ryan Rizza has since been called off.
In later parts of the memo, she proposed that Kennedy prioritize an exclusive interview with prime-time host Jesse Watters regarding his debate plans with Fox News. “If he passes, I’d move on to ‘Fox & Friends,’ ‘The Five,’ or ‘Outnumbered,’” she noted. There was also a mention of the possibility of approaching Piers Morgan if those options fell through.
“You’ve reached this conclusion because you’re the best candidate, and those aware of your capabilities respect your ideas. Keep focusing on your thoughts,” she concluded. “Whatever direction you go in, it will be great.”
She mysteriously ended the memo with, “I love you,” followed by a heart and a kissing emoji.
