Republican US presidential nominee Donald Trump has indicated that he may appoint independent presidential election candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to a key position in his administration if Kennedy drops out of the race and Trump wins the election.

The former US president revealed the idea in an interview with CNN on Tuesday. Kennedy is one of the nephews of former US President John F. Kennedy.

When asked if he would consider appointing Kennedy to a role in his administration if he is reelected as president, Trump said he "probably would."

Trump said: "I like him a lot. I respect him a lot." He added, "I would be honored by that endorsement, certainly."

Kennedy's running mate Nicole Shanahan said in a podcast posted earlier in the day that Kennedy is considering dropping out of the race and endorsing Trump.

Kennedy was earlier seen as a candidate who could attract voters disillusioned with both Trump and Democratic President Joe Biden, who was seeking his second term.

After Vice President Kamala Harris replaced Biden as the Democratic presidential nominee, there has been speculation that she is drawing more votes away from Trump.

Trump's suggestion is apparently aimed at winning over voters supporting Kennedy.