Washington, 24 August 2024 (dpa/MIA) - Independent US presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy is withdrawing from the race for the White House in swing states, he said on Friday, as he announced his name would be removed from ballots in those areas.

In remarks delivered in Phoenix, Arizona, Kennedy said he would remove his name from the ballot in about 10 states where his presence would be a disruption.

"In about 10 battleground states where my presence would be a spoiler. I'm going to remove my name, and I've already started that process and urge voters not to vote for me," he said.

The step is expected to primarily benefit Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump and Kennedy plans to support Trump in his bid for power, according to reports.

Kennedy, whose predicted support could be crucial in a close race, said he was not withdrawing completely from the campaign. "I want everyone to know that I am not terminating my campaign. I am simply suspending it and not ending it," he said.

In the remaining states, votes could still be cast for him without harming Trump or the Democratic candidate Kamala Harris.

The nephew of the legendary former President John F. Kennedy has no chance of winning the presidential election, as he polls at around 5%.

However, both Democrats and Republicans are watching him with concern as the election shapes up to be a close in November, and Kennedy could draw crucial support from both sides.