Independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is reportedly considering exiting the race on Friday and endorsing Republican nominee Donald Trump, according to anonymous sources quoted by ABC News and NBC News.

If Kennedy steps down, it would mark the conclusion of a potential spoiler campaign, effectively narrowing the competition to Vice President Kamala Harris, the Democratic candidate, and former President Trump.

However, this decision hasn’t been confirmed, as insiders close to Kennedy have indicated to YSL News that they do not anticipate him withdrawing from the race.

Kennedy’s campaign announced earlier on Wednesday that he plans to address the nation from Arizona on Friday, where he will elaborate on “the current historical moment and his next steps.”

An ABC News reporter shared on X that he asked Kennedy about the possibility of endorsing Trump. Kennedy replied, “I will not confirm or deny that,” adding, “We are not discussing any of that.”

Kennedy’s running partner, Nicole Shanahan, mentioned on Tuesday that he is weighing the option of ending his campaign to align with Trump.

Trump’s Remarks on RFK Jr.

Trump appears to have shifted his stance on Robert F. Kennedy Jr. now that the independent candidate is contemplating an endorsement.

In a statement to CNN on Tuesday, Trump expressed he would “certainly be open” to Kennedy taking on a role in his administration should he decide to withdraw and support him.

Trump described Kennedy as “a brilliant guy” and “a very smart guy,” a notable change from his previous comments in April when he characterized him as “far more liberal than anyone running as a Democrat,” concerned that Kennedy’s candidacy could undermine his own support in the upcoming election.

In light of the speculation surrounding Kennedy’s potential exit, Trump revealed to FOX Business Network that he had not yet talked with Kennedy but would feel “honored” to share the spotlight with him later this week in Glendale, Arizona. “We have a large audience,” Trump stated. “If he were to endorse me, would I be honored? Absolutely.”

Skepticism Regarding Kennedy’s Departure

Larry Sharpe, outreach director for American Values, posits that Kennedy will likely announce on Friday a plan to sustain the We The People party and remain involved in the upcoming administration, without indicating which one. He remarked, “I think he’s going to say something like that.”

Sharpe also noted that Kennedy possesses approximately “$15 million worth of ballot access, and who would want to give that up? After spending all that money, what do you do next? That’s a significant challenge for him.”

ABC News has reported that sources are cautioning against making too many predictions regarding Friday, as Kennedy’s stance may change before then.

During an RFK event at a Chicago beach on Wednesday, Jeffrey Rose, a 60-year-old lifelong Democrat who has been assisting Kennedy with fundraising for the last 18 months, shared his doubts about Kennedy exiting the race. Rose stated he is scheduled to attend a court hearing with Kennedy in Albany to appeal his right to be on the New York state ballot.

“No, I don’t think so. I believe his commitment is still strong. Wouldn’t it make sense to decide now? I think that would be jumping the gun,” added Rose, who has known Kennedy for three decades. “If there’s an advantage to it, I don’t feel it’s the right moment.”

RFK Jr.’s Campaign Nears Its End Ahead of Election Day

At 70, Kennedy is the son of the late Democratic figure Robert F. Kennedy and initially began his presidential candidacy within the Democratic Party, challenging President Joe Biden for the nomination.

He transitioned to an independent candidate in October 2023.

Recent Ipsos polling this month indicated that Kennedy’s support stood at 4%.

Financial disclosures from the Federal Election Commission revealed that Kennedy’s campaign is reportedly low on funds, with approximately $3.5 million in debts and just $3.9 million available at the end of last month.

Polls suggest that Kennedy’s candidacy is drawing more votes from Trump supporters than those who would likely vote for Harris.

Contributing: Reuters; David Jackson and Karissa Waddick, YSL News