Robert F. Kennedy Jr.s voice has been raspy due to a neurological disorder called spasmodic dysphonia. This is a chronic neurological voice disorder and a focal laryngeal dystonia that results in involuntary spasms of the muscles that open or close the vocal cords. This condition can strain an individuals ability to speak, sometimes causing their voice to sound hoarse or breathy. There is no cure for the condition, but patients can manage symptoms with voice therapy, which can teach a person behavioral strategies to better manage spasms and other symptoms of spasmodic dysphonia. Voice therapy should incorporate individual goals such as strategies for speaking in groups, speaking on the phone, speaking with less effort, etc. .