US presidential candidate cites potential path to victory with Biden out of race

Independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has criticized President Biden for tarnishing his legacy by failing to withdraw from the 2024 election race earlier, drawing a parallel to former President Donald Trump's actions on January 6, 2021.

"I've known Joe Biden for 40 years, and I commend him for the 50 years he dedicated to serving our country. However, I believe he has compromised his reputation and career over the past year by refusing to relinquish power. Many Americans hold Donald Trump accountable for the events of January 6, which demonstrated his unwillingness to let go of power," Kennedy told CBS News' Chief Washington Correspondent, Major Garrett, during an interview, Caliber.Az reports citing the foreign media.

Kennedy emphasized the importance of leaders gracefully stepping down, stating, "It is part of our traditions that our leaders relinquish power gracefully. I don't think President Trump did that, and I don't think President Biden has either."

On July 21, President Biden, 81, announced his decision to withdraw from the race after facing mounting pressure from members of his own party, who expressed concerns about his ability to handle another term due to his age.

In an Oval Office address on July 24, President Biden acknowledged it was time to "pass the torch" to a new generation of leaders, emphasizing that nothing should stand in the way of saving democracy, including "personal ambition."

Kennedy, in his critique, noted that he watched part of Biden's remarks, which he interpreted as more focused on highlighting his accomplishments rather than providing reassurance to the American public about the current state of affairs.

Kennedy, whose presidential aspirations are considered a long shot, has been working to gain ballot access across the country. The Democrat-turned-independent candidate has previously stated that he believes he has a path to victory if Biden were to drop out of the race.

Recently, a since-deleted video shared on social media by Kennedy's son showed Kennedy on the phone with former President Trump, who tried to persuade him to end his campaign and endorse him.

Amid repeated requests for security, Kennedy was recently granted Secret Service protection following an assassination attempt against Trump.