Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Ends Presidential Campaign and Endorses Trump
On Friday, August 23, independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. officially ended his campaign and endorsed Republican candidate Donald Trump. The endorsement was announced during a press conference, after which Kennedy joined Trump at a campaign rally in Arizona, where he received a warm welcome from the crowd.
Trump’s reaction and shared political views
Donald Trump praised Kennedy’s campaign, noting that it had “inspired millions and millions of Americans” and brought attention to important issues that have been overlooked. Kennedy explained his decision to reporters, stating that he had met with Trump and his team multiple times and found alignment on several key issues, such as border security, free speech, and ending wars.
Minimal impact of the endorsement on the race
An analysis by ABC News suggested that Kennedy’s endorsement of Trump is unlikely to significantly alter the dynamics of the presidential race. Kennedy, who had been polling at around 5% since Kamala Harris became the presumptive Democratic nominee, was reportedly drawing support almost equally from both Trump and Harris supporters. His endorsement may offer a slight boost to Trump among certain demographics, particularly white, male, and older voters.
Kennedy’s decision criticized by family members
Kennedy’s endorsement of Trump was met with criticism from his sister, Kerry Kennedy, who stated that this decision betrayed their family’s values and described it as “a sad ending to a sad story.”
Kennedy initially entered the presidential race in April 2023, challenging President Joe Biden for the Democratic nomination. He later chose to run as an independent after gaining support from voters dissatisfied with both Biden and Trump.
Kennedy’s campaign initially showed promise, with a November 2023 Reuters/Ipsos poll indicating 20% support for him in a three-way race against Biden and Trump. However, as the political landscape shifted—marked by an assassination attempt on Trump and Biden’s withdrawal from the race to endorse Kamala Harris—Kennedy’s support dwindled, ultimately leading to his decision to exit the race and endorse Trump.