Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Poised to Suspend Presidential Campaign Amid Talks with Trump Team

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is expected to suspend his independent presidential campaign at an event in Arizona. Discussions with Donald Trump's team are underway for Kennedy to endorse Trump. The potential endorsement follows a warming relationship between the two, despite past criticisms.

Independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is expected to suspend his campaign at an event in Arizona on Friday, according to CNN, which cited two sources familiar with the plans. Discussions have been ongoing between Kennedy and former President Donald Trump's team, with Kennedy potentially endorsing Trump and appearing at Trump's Phoenix-area rally.

Earlier in the week, Kennedy's campaign announced he would deliver a speech in Phoenix on Friday, marking the campaign's first public event since early July. This development follows comments from Kennedy's running mate, Nicole Shanahan, who mentioned on a podcast that the campaign is considering aligning with Trump to lessen the chances of Vice President Kamala Harris winning the election.

Trump has shown openness to the idea of Kennedy playing a role in a future administration, should Kennedy decide to endorse him. 'He's a brilliant guy. He's a very smart guy. I've known him for a very long time,' Trump told CNN. 'I didn't know he was thinking about getting out, but if he is thinking about it, certainly I'd be open to it.'

Talks between Trump's advisers and Kennedy's team reportedly began in the lead-up to the Republican National Convention in July, following a leaked phone call between Trump and Kennedy. Despite initial critical exchanges, Trump and Kennedy's relationship has warmed in recent months.

A prominent vaccine skeptic, Kennedy previously criticized Trump for his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and environmental policies. However, the two had a phone call in July, shortly after an assassination attempt on Trump at a Pennsylvania rally. They subsequently met in person in Milwaukee during the first day of the Republican National Convention.

Kennedy has faced challenges gaining traction as Harris secured the Democratic nomination. Recent polls show Harris leading with 47% support, Trump with 44%, and Kennedy with 5%. The Kennedy campaign has also struggled financially, with campaign finance reports from July revealing $3.9 million in funds and $3.5 million in outstanding debts.

The Independent campaign has raised concerns among Democrats and Republicans about Kennedy's influence on the presidential race, especially in key battleground states. While it's unclear which 2020 voters Kennedy has attracted more, his campaign believes they draw more support from those who previously backed Trump, according to recent statements.

(With inputs from agencies.)