RFK Jr. Announces Suspension of 2024 Campaign, Endorsement of Trump

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has suspended his independent bid for the presidency and endorsed Donald Trump, shaking up the political landscape as we head toward the 2024 election.

At a Glance

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. suspended his independent presidential campaign and endorsed Donald Trump.
Kennedy cited no viable path to the White House as his reason for stepping aside.
He appeared at a rally with Trump in Glendale, Arizona.
Kennedy’s decision was condemned by his family.

RFK Jr.’s Presidential Campaign

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has decided to end his third-party challenge for the presidency. He announced his decision in a Glendale, Arizona rally with Trump. Kennedy indicated that the path to victory was unattainable while expressing concerns for free speech, the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, and the “war on our children.” He announced the suspension, not termination, of his campaign, stressing his plan to remain on the ballot in non-competitive states.

Kennedy’s internal analyses revealed his presence in the race was likely to harm Trump and benefit Democratic nominee Kamala Harris, a scenario prompting discussions with Trump. The prospect of a contingent election remains a distant possibility that Kennedy has left open, keeping himself in the conversation should it transpire.

BREAKING: Robert F. Kennedy Jr. ends his presidential campaign and plans to endorse former President Donald Trump. https://t.co/d6NjhizN7Z

— CBS News (@CBSNews) August 23, 2024

Endorsement of Donald Trump

At the rally, Trump praised Kennedy’s influence and welcomed his endorsement warmly. Kennedy described their alliance as “a unity party” aimed at mutual goals while respecting their right to public and private disagreements. Kennedy also expressed his belief that, in an honest system, he would have won the election, pointing to perceived systemic challenges as key factors in his decision.

Trump announced that if he is reelected, he plans to create an independent commission that will work to unveil the rest of the documents on JFK’s assassination. “All who supported Bobby’s campaign, I very simply ask you join us in building this coalition — it’s a beautiful coalition — in defense of liberty and safety, prosperity and peace,” Trump urged at the rally.

Kennedy’s move to support Trump drew considerable backlash from some of his family members. His sister, Kerry Kennedy, deemed it a “betrayal of the values that our father and family hold most dear.”

Implications Moving Forward

Amid ongoing schisms within his family and supporters, Kennedy praised the dedication of his campaign staff and volunteers, acknowledging the personal sacrifices involved. His wife, Cheryl Hines, expressed discomfort yet gratitude to those who supported the campaign. Kennedy remains resolute in his decision, citing ongoing issues with Ukraine, free speech, and others, that pulled him away from the Democratic Party initially.

With Trump promising commissions on assassination attempts and childhood diseases if elected, the veteran Republican candidate continues to solidify alliances to bolster his campaign. Time will tell whether Kennedy’s support could tip the scales favorably for Trump in battleground states.