PHOENIX (AP) — Robert F. Kennedy said Friday he is suspending his independent presidential bid and is backing Donald Trump. Moreover, as Kennedy backs Trump, it’s expected to influence his supporters. Many will likely follow his lead, potentially boosting Trump’s voter base. #KennedyBacksTrump
Kennedy’s internal polls indicated that his candidacy would harm Trump and benefit Democratic nominee Kamala Harris. He mentioned free speech, the Ukraine war, and “a war on our children” as key reasons to exit the race. Consequently, he plans to remove his name from the ballot in crucial battleground states.
“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 said.
However, he made clear that he wasn’t formally ending his bid and said his supporters could continue to back him in the majority of states where they are unlikely to sway the outcome. Kennedy took steps to withdraw his candidacy in at least two states late this week, Arizona and Pennsylvania.
Kennedy said the move followed conversations with Trump over the past few weeks.
Before the speech, his campaign had said in a Pennsylvania court filing Friday that he would be endorsing Trump for president. A spokesperson for Kennedy said the court filing had been made in error and would be updated, though Kennedy himself reiterated his support for Trump shortly afterward.
Instead, Kennedy backs Trump, surprising many in the political landscape. Alignments like this highlight the changing priorities within American politics. By endorsing Trump, Kennedy aims to consolidate his influence and impact the election outcome. #KennedyBacksTrump
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