Mike Pence withdraws from US presidential campaign

Pence's surprise announcement at the Republican Jewish Coalition donor conference in Las Vegas made him the first major candidate to drop out. Donald Trump remains the front-runner in the race.

Former US Vice President Mike Pence (right). Photo: Getty

“Having traveled across the country over the past six months, I come here to say that it has become clear to me: This is not my time. So, after much prayer and consideration, I have decided to suspend my campaign for president,” Pence said to a stunned audience.

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and Mr Trump did not mention Mr Pence in their speeches following Mr Pence’s announcement. Mr DeSantis later posted on social media platform X that Mr Pence was a “man of faith and principle”.

More candidates could soon follow Pence in dropping out. Mr Trump’s lead is so large that there is no clear challenger since Mr DeSantis’ campaign faltered after a disappointing start.

Former Vice President Pence, 64, has publicly broken with Mr Trump, criticising the former President for his role in the January 6, 2021, insurrection at the US Capitol.

Mr Pence announced his White House bid in June but failed to attract enough primary voters and donors to sustain it. He ran out of cash in October and has failed to make an impact in Iowa despite spending time and resources there.

Pence’s third-quarter fundraising totals through October 15 show his campaign is $620,000 in debt, with just $1.2 million in cash on hand — not enough for a White House run.

Mai Anh ( according to AFP, CNA)

Source: https://www.congluan.vn/ong-mike-pence-rut-lui-khoi-chien-dich-tranh-cu-tong-thong-my-post270364.html