Ron DeSantis drops out of presidential race after campaign’s failure to launch

Ron DeSantis is suspending his 2024 presidential campaign.

“We don’t have a clear path to victory. Accordingly, I am today suspending my campaign,” Mr DeSantis said. “I’m proud to have delivered on 100% of my promises. I will not stop now.”

The Florida governor went on to endorse former president Donald Trump for the nomination.

“I’ve had disagreements with Donald Trump, such as on the Coronavirus pandemic, and his elevation of Anthony Fauci,” he said. “Trump is superior to the current incumbent Joe Biden.”

“I signed a pledge to support the Republican nominee and I will honour that pledge,” he continued. “He has my endorsement because we can't go back to the old Republican guard of yesteryear, or a repackaged form of warmed-over corporatism that Nikki Haley represents.”

Mr Trump’s campaign issued a statement in response, per Nick Corasaniti with The New York Times.

“With only a few days left until President Donald J. Trump’s victory in New Hampshire, we are honored by the endorsement from Governor Ron DeSantis and so many other former presidential candidates,” the statement read.

The statement went on to tell voters, “it’s time to choose wisely” between Mr Trump and former South Carolina governor Nikki Haley.

“Nikki Haley is the candidate of the globalists and Democrats who will do everything to stop the America First movement,” the statement continued. From higher taxes, to decimating Social Security and Medicare, and to open borders, she represents the views of Democrats more than the views of Republicans.”

Meanwhile, Ms Haley said Mr DeSantis “ran a great race” after receiving the news he had dropped out during a New Hampshire campaign event.

“He’s been a good governor, and we wish him well,” Ms Haley said on Sunday