Robert F. Kennedy Jr., an independent candidate for the U.S. presidency, has announced the suspension of his campaign, throwing his support behind the Republican nominee, former President Donald Trump.
Speaking at an event in Phoenix, Kennedy acknowledged that he no longer saw a realistic path to victory and decided to back Trump to avoid aiding the Democratic nominee, Vice President Kamala Harris.
Kennedy, 70, who comes from the illustrious Kennedy political family, initially entered the race as a Democrat before running independently. Despite his famous lineage, his campaign was marred by controversies, including bizarre claims of a brain worm and a dead bear prank, which led to widespread ridicule.
In his announcement, Kennedy expressed his belief that Trump’s promise to negotiate an end to the war in Ukraine was a key reason for his endorsement. He also hinted at a potential role in a future Trump administration, possibly in a health-related department, given his long-standing criticisms of U.S. health agencies.
The move has sparked reactions from both sides of the political spectrum. The Democratic National Committee dismissed the endorsement, calling it the “inheritance of a failed fringe candidate,” while Trump acknowledged Kennedy’s support, which he said would help unite anti-establishment voters.
Kennedy’s decision to suspend his campaign comes as the U.S. presidential race tightens, with key swing states likely to determine the final outcome in November.
