New York Magazine Reporter on Leave After Alleged Relationship with RFK Jr.

A prominent journalist from New York Magazine, Olivia Nuzzi, has been placed on leave following the disclosure of a personal relationship with a former reporting subject, reportedly Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a former presidential candidate. The magazine stated that Nuzzi, a Washington correspondent, breached its standards concerning conflicts of interest and disclosures by engaging in the relationship, which was deemed relevant to the 2024 campaign.

New York Magazine issued a statement indicating that if the relationship had been disclosed earlier, Nuzzi would not have been allowed to continue her role covering the presidential campaign. The editor-in-chief, David Haskell, emphasized they learned about the relationship shortly before taking action, removing her from campaign coverage.

Nuzzi’s work from December onwards, including her profiles and features, was reviewed internally, with no inaccuracies or bias found, according to the magazine. However, a more thorough investigation involving an independent third party is underway to ensure journalistic integrity is upheld.

In a statement shared across multiple media outlets, including CNN and the New York Times, Nuzzi acknowledged that some of her interactions with a former subject turned personal earlier this year. She emphasized that the relationship was non-physical and did not influence her reporting duties, but admitted the necessity of disclosure to prevent the perception of a conflict of interest.

Stefanie Spear, spokesperson for Robert F. Kennedy Jr., responded to the news, stating that Kennedy had met Nuzzi only once for an interview that resulted in what she described as a “hit piece.” Kennedy, known as an environmental lawyer and anti-vaccine advocate, recently made headlines by withdrawing his presidential bid and endorsing Donald Trump.

Olivia Nuzzi joined New York Magazine in 2017 and is known for her in-depth political coverage, including profiles of major political figures and her participation in presidential campaign reporting. The nature of her relationship with Kennedy reportedly began after a November 2023 profile but ended by late August 2024.

Kennedy’s spokesperson noted that the politician, aged 70, has not directly commented on the incident. Kennedy himself has been involved in various controversies and revelations, notably his support for Trump and his emergence as a third-party candidate.