Presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. speaks during a campaign event at Independence Mall, Monday, Oct. 9, 2023, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke)

PHILADELPHIA (AP) — Republicans are attacking Robert F. Kennedy as he drops his Democratic primary bid and launches an independent run for the White House. Their fiery response reflects growing concerns that the former Democrat now threatens to take votes from former President Donald Trump in 2024. National Democrats have stayed silent on Kennedy’s announcement. Kennedy declared independence from the Democratic Party in Philadelphia on Monday. He spoke of a “rising tide of discontent” in the United States and said he wants to make a “new Declaration of Independence” from corporations, the media and the two major political parties.