Mike Pence drops out of 2024 presidential race: 'It's become clear to me this is not my time'

Mike Pence dropped out of the 2024 presidential race on Saturday. The former vice president conceded that "this is not my time."

Pence announced his sudden suspension of his 2024 presidential campaign during an appearance at the annual Republican Jewish Coalition convention in Las Vegas, Nevada.

"I came here to say it’s become clear to me this is not my time. So after much prayer and deliberation, I have decided to suspend my campaign for president effective today," Pence told the audience.

"You know, we always knew this would be an uphill battle, but I have no regrets. The only thing that would have been harder than coming up short would have been if we'd never tried at all," he added.

"I say this is not my time, but it's still your time," Pence continued. "I urge you to hold fast to what matters faith, family, and the Constitution of the United States of America. I'm proud that our campaign stood firm on America's role as leader of the free world."

Pence, 64, promised to continue to promote "conservative values."

Pence vowed to help elect "principled Republican leaders to every office in the land, so help me God."

"I urge all my fellow Republicans here, give our country a Republican standard-bearer that will, as Lincoln said, appeal to the better angels of our nature, and not only lead us to victory, but lead our nation with civility," Pence stated.

Pence did not mention his ex-boss – former President Donald Trump.

Pence spokesperson Devin O’Malley said the former presidential candidate chose the convention to make the announcement because "the conflict in Israel is a microcosm of what Pence has been evangelizing regarding populism and traditional conservative values. RJC provided him one last opportunity to make that case and do so in front of a supportive audience."

Republican presidential candidates reacted to Pence's decision to drop out of the race.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis said, "Vice President Mike Pence is a principled man of faith who has worked tirelessly to advance the conservative cause. Casey and I appreciate Mike and Karen for their willingness to put themselves forward in this campaign and wish the Pence family well in their next steps."

Former United Nations Ambassador Nikki Haley added, "He’s been a good man of faith. He’s been a good man of service."

Sen. Tim Scott (R-S.C.) said of Pence, "The vice president has been a prayer partner, a friend, and a man of integrity and deep conviction. The Republican Party is stronger today because of Mike’s leadership."

Pence – who announced his bid for president on June 7 – did not endorse any of his former 2024 GOP candidates after dropping out.

Pence's presidential campaign had been running low on money. Pence had polled in the mid to low single digits in recent months.

According to the New York Times, Pence had yet to qualify for the third Republican debate on Nov. 8 in Miami, Florida. All candidates have until Nov. 6 to meet the requirements to enter the third GOP debate.

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