Kennedy dynasty members like John Bouvier Schlossberg exemplify the entitlement plaguing Democratic politics. At 33, Schlossberg, running for New York’s 12th Congressional District, has skipped strategy meetings and prioritized paddleboarding over campaign work. His candidacy, backed by legacy figures like Nancy Pelosi, highlights a troubling trend: the party’s fixation on dynastic charm over substantive qualifications. Pelosi’s endorsement of Schlossberg’s slogan—“believe in something again”—underscores this misplaced prioritization. The result? A campaign that feels like a vanity project rather than a serious political effort.

The broader Kennedy legacy complicates modern democracy. While figures like Ted Kennedy earned respect through decades of service, current descendants like Schlossberg leverage fame without accountability. The article critiques how the family’s nostalgic allure distracts from real leadership needs. For instance, Schlossberg’s lack of traditional experience contrasts with his prominence in paid ads and Pelosi’s endorsement. This pattern risks entrenching an entitled elite that prioritizes symbolism over service. The public, meanwhile, demands fresh voices, not relics of a bygone era.

Schlossberg’s case isn’t just about one candidate—it’s a symptom of systemic issues. The article contrasts him with Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a health and human services official whose controversial past reflects the dynasty’s toxic tendencies. While some Kennedys, like Kathleen Kennedy Townsend, served effectively, the current generation embodies the party’s reputation for insularity. Critics argue this undermines trust in Democratic institutions. The solution? Moving beyond Camelot nostalgia and evaluating candidates on merit. As Cottle writes, “For the love of God, let us stop treating Mr. Schlossberg as inherently worthy.” The article concludes that the party must reject dynastic favoritism to reclaim its image as a force for progressive change.