RFK Jr. faces steep hurdles and high costs to get on ballot in all 50 states

At his campaign events, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. isn't just making his pitch for the presidency — he's also asking voters to put him on the ballot in their states, a steep hurdle that must be cleared by independent candidates.

At a recent rally in Kansas City, Missouri, Kennedy asked the crowd of about 300 voters for help. The state requires independent candidates to collect 10,000 signatures by July 29 to appear on the 2024 general election presidential ballot.

"I need you to help me," Kennedy said. "You know, in this state, Democrats and Republicans both get on the ballot for free. I need to work for it."