Independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is poised to announce the suspension of his campaign at a Friday event in Arizona, according to sources familiar with the matter. This development comes amidst ongoing discussions between Kennedy’s team and the campaign of Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump. The talks are reportedly centered around Kennedy’s potential endorsement of Trump and his possible appearance at a Trump rally in the Phoenix area later that evening.
Possible Endorsement and Future Role
Earlier on Wednesday, Robert F. Kennedy Jr campaign confirmed that he would deliver a significant address in Phoenix, intended to “address the nation.” However, specifics about the content of his speech remain undisclosed. This announcement follows recent comments by Kennedy’s running mate, Nicole Shanahan, who suggested on a podcast that Kennedy’s campaign is considering an alliance with Trump to counter the threat posed by Vice President Kamala Harris.
Trump has expressed willingness to include Kennedy in his administration if the independent candidate endorses him. “He’s a brilliant guy. He’s a very smart guy. I’ve known him for a very long time,” Trump remarked. The discussions between Trump’s allies and Kennedy’s team began before the Republican National Convention in July, gaining momentum after a leaked phone call between Trump and Kennedy and subsequent in-person meetings.
Campaign Dynamics and Voter Impact of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Campaign
Despite initial tensions, Kennedy and Trump have developed a more amicable relationship in recent months. Kennedy, known for his vocal criticism of Trump’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, had previously clashed with Trump over vaccine policies and environmental issues. However, their interaction intensified after Trump survived an assassination attempt in Pennsylvania, leading to further discussions about Kennedy’s potential endorsement.
Kennedy’s campaign has struggled recently, particularly after Kamala Harris assumed the top position on the Democratic ticket. A recent poll showed Harris leading with 47% support, Trump at 44%, and Kennedy trailing at 5%. Additionally, Kennedy’s campaign faces financial difficulties, with a significant portion of funds allocated to gaining ballot access nationwide. As of July, the campaign reported $3.9 million in funds with nearly $3.5 million in debts.
The impact of Kennedy’s campaign on the presidential race remains uncertain, particularly in key battleground states like Arizona, where narrow margins decided the 2020 election. Kennedy’s current support in Arizona stands at 6%, trailing behind Harris and Trump. As Kennedy has qualified for the ballot in 21 states, his endorsement could play a crucial role in the upcoming election.
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