RFK Jr.'s Potential VP Running Mate Aaron Rodgers Shared False Sandy Hook School Shooting Conspiracy Theories, Report Says

Aaron Rodgers, a four-time NFL MVP, has been supporting false conspiracy theories regarding the tragic 2012 Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting.

This adds to a series of controversies surrounding the former Super Bowl champion, who is now being considered as a potential vice presidential candidate for independent Robert F. Kennedy Jr.

Aaron Rodgers' Past Claim About Sandy Hook Shooting

Rodgers shared conspiracy theories about the 2012 shooting on multiple occasions. This information was reported by CNN, which referenced a discussion between Rodgers and a CNN reporter, as well as an interview with an undisclosed individual.

One of those incidents occurred at a 2013 Kentucky Derby after-party, where Rodgers allegedly told CNN's Pamela Brown that the shooting, which resulted in the deaths of 20 children and six adults, was orchestrated by the government.

Years later, the experienced quarterback allegedly stated that the children at the Connecticut school were actors, echoing a theory promoted by a right-wing radio host. This host was eventually taken to court by the victims' parents and required to pay a substantial amount for making false and defamatory statements.

Rodgers' remarks represent the most recent controversy for the 2010 Super Bowl champion as he enters his second season with the New York Jets after a rough start that resulted in Rodgers playing only four snaps before injuring his achilles and sitting out the rest of the season.

RFK Jr.'s Presidential Campaign

Rodgers has faced criticism for inaccurately stating in 2021 that he was "immunized" against COVID-19 without actually receiving a vaccine, a statement he later acknowledged was misleading, and for implying earlier this year that late-night host Jimmy Kimmel had connections to late sex offender and financier Jeffrey Epstein.

Speculations about Aaron Rodgers potentially teaming up with independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. prompted a sportswriter to revisit a video of Rodgers sharing his perspective.

Despite the criticism of Kennedy's VP announcement, there have been indications that Rodgers could be considering a foray into politics.

A video of Rodgers dashing onto the field before a Jets game while holding an American flag was posted on X, previously known as Twitter, on Tuesday by John Breech, an NFL writer. On September 11, 2023, video from a game between the Jets and Buffalo Bills captured Rodgers carrying the flag as part of a pregame ceremony honoring the 9/11 terrorist attacks.

Pretty clear now that Aaron Rodgers was actually just filming his first campaign ad here pic.twitter.com/qsjAPXTF2L
— John Breech (@johnbreech) March 12, 2024

Kennedy said he has an ongoing discussions with Rodgers for the past month regarding the VP position. In February, he reached out to Ventura about the role. Tyrel Ventura, Ventura's son, said that there's no official request made for Gov. Ventura to be a vice-presidential candidate, so the governor refrains from commenting on speculation.

Nevertheless, the ex-wrestler, who gained fame in the 1970s and '80s, suggested that he might run alongside Kennedy. Meanwhile, Rodgers supported Kennedy's presidential campaign early on, endorsing him in April 2023.