why is rfk jr's voice like that

Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s distinctive, raspy voice is caused by a rare neurological condition called spasmodic dysphonia. This disorder results from involuntary spasms in the muscles that control the opening and closing of the vocal cords, leading to a voice that sounds strained, shaky, or breathy. The condition affects the neural network in the brain, causing these spasms, and is chronic with no known cure. RFK Jr. has spoken openly about how this condition started in his early 40s, significantly altering his voice from a strong, rich tone to one that is often choked, halting, and tremulous. Despite the roughness of his voice, he notes that the more he uses it, the stronger it tends to become, though he remains dissatisfied with how it sounds.