PHOENIX — In a surprising turn of events that could alter the dynamics of the 2024 presidential race, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced on Friday that he is suspending his independent campaign for the White House and endorsing former President Donald J. Trump. The endorsement, made public at a rally in Arizona, represents a significant late-stage shakeup that could provide a boost to Trump’s campaign.
Kennedy, who had initially broken away from the Democratic Party to run as an independent, joined Trump onstage to a chorus of “Bobby!” cheers from the crowd. During his speech, Kennedy explained that internal polling had influenced his decision. “My presence in this race would hurt Trump and help Democratic nominee Kamala Harris,” he said, acknowledging the strategic implications of his continued candidacy.
He further cited key issues as motivating factors for his endorsement. “These are the principal causes that persuaded me to leave the Democratic Party and run as an independent, and now to throw my support to President Trump,” Kennedy declared, listing free speech, the war in Ukraine, and what he described as “a war on our children” as central concerns.
Kennedy’s endorsement of Trump underscores a striking political realignment, with both figures positioning themselves as challengers to the establishment. His withdrawal from the race and subsequent endorsement could help consolidate support among voters who are dissatisfied with the major parties, potentially influencing the outcome in battleground states where every vote will count.
The broader impact of Kennedy’s decision remains uncertain, as public polls have not yet shown a significant shift in voter sentiment. However, the endorsement has the potential to energize Trump’s base and attract Kennedy’s supporters, who might otherwise have been inclined to vote for a third-party candidate.
As Kennedy works to remove his name from ballots in key battleground states, his move could represent a pivotal moment in a closely contested race. Whether his endorsement will sway a significant number of voters or alter the election’s outcome will be a key question in the weeks leading up to Election Day.
“This is not about party lines,” Kennedy concluded. “It’s about standing up for what’s right, for our country, and for our future. That’s why I’m standing with Donald Trump,” Robert F. Kennedy, JR. said.