WASHINGTON — Independent US presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is set to deliver a national address on Friday in Arizona, sparking widespread speculation that he may endorse former President Donald Trump for the upcoming White House race.

Kennedy's campaign announced the upcoming address, stating that he will "speak to the nation live on Friday about the present historical moment and his path forward," according to his press secretary, Stefanie Spear. However, no additional details were provided about the specific content of his speech.

Reports from ABC News, citing sources familiar with the matter, suggest that Kennedy may announce his withdrawal from the presidential race and could endorse Trump, the Republican party's candidate.

When asked by ABC News if he would be endorsing Trump, Kennedy replied, "I will not confirm or deny that," adding, "we are not discussing any of that."

The speculation intensified after Kennedy's running mate, Nicole Shanahan, expressed her "full support" for a potential role for Kennedy in a future Trump administration.

Trump is also scheduled to hold a rally in Glendale, Arizona, on Friday, just 20 minutes from Phoenix, coinciding with Kennedy's planned address. — Agencies