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After several weeks of speculation about the intentions of the two-time Republican candidate for president, Mitt Romney announced during a conference call with his donors that he has decided to sit this race out.
“After putting considerable thought into making another run for president, I have decided it is best to give other leaders in the party the opportunity to become our next nominee,” Romney said during a five-minute call.
Republican observers believe that Jeb Bush’s strong showing in the fund raising department and early polling gave Romney pause about his bid to run again. In addition Bush was able to persuade a former close advisor to Romney to jump ship and join the Bush campaign.
Towards the end of the call to his donors Romney explained that his chance of changing his mind “seems unlikely.” He reiterated that he is not organizing a new PAC, accept donations, or put together a new running team. He also told his donors not to hesitate giving their support to another candidate of their choice.
“You can’t imagine how hard it is for Ann and me to step aside, especially knowing of your support and the support of so many people across the country,” Romney said in his prepared remarks for the call. “But we believe it is for the best of the party and the nation.”
