ABC News and other US media outlets are reporting that independent US presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. plans to drop out of the race and endorse Republican former President Donald Trump.

The reports follow an announcement by Kennedy's campaign on Wednesday that he will address the nation about "his path forward" on Friday in Arizona. Kennedy is a nephew of former US President John F. Kennedy.

Trump indicated on Tuesday that he would probably consider appointing Kennedy to a role in his administration if the independent candidate drops out of the race and Trump is reelected as president.

Attention is focused on Kennedy's move as he was seen as a candidate who could affect the outcome of the election by appealing to supporters from both the Democratic and Republican parties.