what happened to bobby kennedy's voice

Bobby Kennedy Jr.'s distinctive, shaky, and raspy voice is caused by a rare neurological condition called spasmodic dysphonia. This disorder causes involuntary spasms in the muscles that control the vocal cords, leading to breaks, strained, strangled, or breathy quality in the voice. Kennedy has had this condition for decades, noticing symptoms first in his 40s, and it has gradually diminished his once strong speaking voice. Despite treatments such as botulinum toxin injections and surgery to implant a titanium bridge in his vocal cords, the condition remains challenging. The cause of spasmodic dysphonia is unknown but is believed to be related to a malfunction in the brain's neural network, specifically the basal ganglia, which controls muscle coordination. Kennedy has openly expressed frustration over his voice but uses it regularly to maintain strength in the vocal muscles, noting the neurological injury is permanent.