Former Vice President Mike Pence has officially withdrawn from the 2024 presidential race, making the announcement during a speech at the Republican Jewish Coalition Conference. “It’s evident that now is not my moment,” Pence stated, declaring the immediate suspension of his campaign.
Pence added, “While this may not be my time, it’s certainly a time for the American people to make their voices heard.”
His departure comes amid a competitive Republican field, dominated by his former running mate, ex-President Donald Trump. Despite his early campaign launch in June, where he emphasized the need for “alternative leadership,” Pence struggled to gain traction among the GOP contenders.
In his campaign, Pence highlighted his extensive political experience, including his tenure as Indiana’s governor and congressman, as well as his role in the Trump administration. “I’ve been incredibly fortunate to serve this country, and while it would be convenient to remain a spectator, that’s not how I was brought up,” he said in his campaign’s introductory video.
Although Pence had been a staunch supporter of Trump during their time in office, he distanced himself after the 2020 election, particularly when he certified President Biden’s win amid Trump’s unfounded claims of election fraud.
Pence had been vocal about his conservative principles, often diverging from other candidates like Trump and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. He advocated for stricter abortion laws, supported U.S. aid to Ukraine, and called for reforms in Social Security and Medicare. However, his policy-centric approach failed to ignite enthusiasm among donors or boost his polling numbers.
Financial records indicate that Pence’s campaign raised about $3.3 million in the third quarter, with roughly $620,000 in debt, ending September with just around $1.2 million in available funds. In contrast, Ron DeSantis and former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley raised $15 million and $11 million, respectively, during the same period.
With Pence stepping out of the race, the GOP field narrows, leaving his supporters to consider other candidates as they vie for a position closer to the frontrunner, Donald Trump.