Senator Tim Scott Ends 2024 Presidential Bid, Shocks Staff and GOP Field with Sudden Exit

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Senator Tim Scott of South Carolina has withdrawn from the 2024 Republican presidential race, making the announcement on Trey Gowdy’s Fox News program. This decision caught many off guard, including Gowdy, Scott’s former colleague in the House, and his own campaign staff who were unaware of his plans to exit the race.

Before his announcement, Scott’s campaign had continued its fundraising efforts, highlighting the unexpected nature of his decision. Scott’s exit comes amidst a landscape where former President Donald Trump maintains a significant lead in early primary polls, including in Iowa. Despite efforts by Scott’s campaign and a supporting super PAC, which spent nearly $25 million in advertising, his polling numbers remained stagnant. This was further complicated by the rising popularity of former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley, who recently surged to second place in early-state primary polls.

Haley, who had appointed Scott to the Senate in 2013, expressed her admiration for him on social media, acknowledging his positive impact on the primary race. Meanwhile, Scott’s super PAC had already canceled millions in fall advertising, citing the Republican electorate’s lack of readiness for a Trump alternative.

Scott, who didn’t see a path to victory, emphasized the need to consolidate efforts to present a strong challenge to Trump. He expressed no immediate interest in endorsing another candidate or pursuing a vice-presidential candidacy.

The withdrawal of Scott, known for his conservative stance and bold ideas, follows the exit of another prominent figure, former Vice President Mike Pence. Scott’s departure from the race is part of the ongoing narrowing of the Republican presidential field. His former rivals, including Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and Vivek Ramaswamy, have acknowledged Scott’s contributions to the race and the Republican Party.