Arizona (US state): Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has suspended his independent presidential campaign and endorsed former President Donald Trump. This unexpected move could bolster Trump’s support base with followers of Kennedy.
Kennedy stated that internal polls suggested his candidacy might harm Trump’s chances and benefit Democratic nominee Kamala Harris. While public polls have yet to clearly demonstrate his impact, Kennedy highlighted key issues such as free speech, the war in Ukraine, and what he described as “a war on our children” as reasons for his decision.
“These are the principal causes that persuaded me to leave the Democratic Party, run as an independent, and now to throw my support behind President Trump,” Kennedy explained. However, he emphasized that he isn’t formally ending his campaign, allowing his supporters to continue backing him in states where he remains on the ballot.
Kennedy’s decision followed discussions with Trump, which he described as forming “a unity party” that allows for public and private disagreements. His endorsement has provoked reactions, particularly from his family. Five of his family members called his support for Trump “a sad ending to a sad story,” highlighting a divide within the Kennedy family.
Kennedy’s actions have led him to withdraw from ballots in Arizona and Pennsylvania, although it’s too late for similar action in battleground states like Michigan, Nevada, and Wisconsin.
The alliance between Kennedy and Trump represents a significant shift, particularly given Kennedy’s previous criticisms of Trump. The partnership may have implications for the presidential race, with both campaigns expressing shared concerns over the use of the legal system by Democrats.
Trump welcomed Kennedy’s endorsement, describing him as a “brilliant guy” and even suggesting that Kennedy could play a role in his administration if he dropped out of the race. Kennedy’s running mate, Nicole Shanahan, hinted at the possibility of joining forces with Trump, potentially as Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services.
Kennedy’s decision to endorse Trump is likely to influence his supporters. Some, like 38-year-old Casey Westerman, have indicated they would follow Kennedy’s lead and support Trump.
Kennedy initially entered the 2024 race as a Democrat before running as an independent, gaining support from anti-establishment voters and vaccine skeptics. However, his campaign faced financial difficulties and legal challenges, with recent polls showing his support in the mid-single digits.
The impact of Kennedy’s endorsement on the election remains to be seen, but it has undoubtedly added a new dimension to the 2024 presidential race.
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