U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr. stated on March 5, 2026, that his niece, Zoe Hines, has signed a developmental contract with WWE. During a joint appearance at the University of Florida, Kennedy Jr. credited U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon for her role in the signing. He said, “Linda McMahon has become a very close friend – My niece Zoe Hines recently signed a contract with WWE, which Linda has a lot to do with, to become a wrestler, and I’m really looking forward to knowing so many good doctors who can treat her after”.
Zoe Hines is the daughter of Rebecca Hines and Laurent Boye, and the biological niece of actress Cheryl Hines. She is the niece of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. by marriage. Hines previously participated as a cheerleader for the University of Florida and was a standout softball player. In 2025, she attended a WWE tryout during SummerSlam weekend in New Jersey. Following the tryout, Paul Levesque, WWE’s Chief Content Officer, publicized her participation and athletic background on social media. The signing occurs within the context of a relationship between WWE leadership and the current administration. Paul Levesque serves on the President’s Council on Sports, Fitness & Nutrition. In this capacity, he has worked with Secretary Kennedy Jr. on initiatives such as restoring the Presidential Fitness Test. The McMahon family has maintained ties with Donald Trump for decades, including his induction into the WWE Hall of Fame and hosting WrestleMania events at his properties.
Hines’ athletic history at the University of Florida provided the foundation for her transition into professional wrestling. During the 2025 SummerSlam tryouts, WWE utilized its Performance Center scouts to evaluate a range of high-level collegiate athletes. Hines was noted for her performance during these sessions, which eventually led to the contract offer mentioned by Secretary Kennedy Jr. during the March 5 event.
