WASHINGTON - Independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr abandoned his campaign on Aug 23 and endorsed Republican Donald Trump, ending a presidential bid that he began as a Democrat trading on one of the most famous names in American politics.

His campaign indicated that he feared staying in the race would siphon support from former president Trump, who is locked in a tight contest with Democratic Vice-President Kamala Harris ahead of the Nov 5 election.

"His candidacy has inspired millions and millions of Americans, raised critical issues that have been too long ignored in this country," Trump said of Mr Kennedy.

Mr Kennedy said he met with Trump and his aides several times and learned they agreed on issues like border security, free speech and ending wars.

"There are still many issues and approaches on which we continue to have very serious differences. But we are aligned on other key issues," he said, at a news conference.

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