Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s distinctive voice is caused by a rare neurological disorder called spasmodic dysphonia. This condition causes involuntary spasms in the muscles that control the vocal cords, which results in a voice that can sound strained, broken, raspy, or shaky. He was diagnosed with this disorder in his 40s, and it affects how his vocal folds vibrate, producing a tremble or quiver in his voice that can make it sound rough or strained. Due to this condition, RFK Jr.'s voice sometimes sounds gravelly or difficult to understand, and it has a unique texture that affects public perception of his speech. He has undergone treatments like botulinum toxin injections to help relax the vocal muscles, although he eventually stopped them as they did not suit him well. Despite the challenges, this voice is part of his vocal identity and can convey intensity, authenticity, and a sense of vulnerability.
