As the 2024 presidential race intensifies, new developments suggest that Robert F. Kennedy Jr. may soon withdraw from the competition. According to sources close to the situation, Kennedy is expected to make a final decision by the end of this week. The possible exit comes amid ongoing speculation that he may endorse former President Donald Trump, a move that could shake up the political landscape.
#BREAKING: Robert F. Kennedy Jr. intends to end his independent presidential campaign and endorse former President Donald Trump, sources tell NBC News. https://t.co/v2Hskhfay0
— NBC Bay Area (@nbcbayarea) August 21, 2024
Kennedy, known for his unorthodox political stance, has been a controversial figure within the Democratic Party. Recently, Kennedy expressed frustration with the Democratic National Convention, criticizing the process as undemocratic and pointing to Vice President Kamala Harris as an example of what he sees as the party’s flawed decision-making. “It was a coronation, it’s not democracy. Nobody voted. Who chose Kamala? It wasn’t voters,” Kennedy remarked in a recent interview with ABC News.
Sources familiar with the discussions have indicated that Kennedy’s withdrawal from the race is not yet set in stone. However, there is talk that he may appear alongside Trump at an event in Phoenix on Friday, signaling a potential alliance. While Kennedy has not confirmed or denied these rumors, his running mate, Nicole Shanahan, has hinted at the possibility. “All we can do is gauge sincerity, and we’re gauging sincerity from Donald Trump,” Shanahan told ABC News.
Kennedy’s potential exit comes at a critical time, with his campaign facing mounting legal challenges from Democratic groups. These lawsuits, aimed at removing his name from state ballots, have fueled Kennedy’s claims that the Democratic Party is undermining his supporters’ rights. “We’re getting prosecuted politically right now. This is not normal for democracy,” Shanahan stated on Wednesday.
As the week unfolds, all eyes will be on Kennedy’s next move. A spokesperson for Kennedy has confirmed that he will address the nation on Friday to discuss his “path forward,” though specifics remain unclear. The possibility of an endorsement for Trump, coupled with Kennedy’s critiques of the Democratic Party, adds a layer of unpredictability to an already volatile election cycle.
Kennedy’s decision, whether to stay in the race or to align with Trump, could have significant implications for the 2024 election. The prospect of such a high-profile endorsement would undoubtedly energize Trump’s base while sending shockwaves through the political establishment. However, until Kennedy makes his intentions clear, the future of his campaign remains uncertain.