Manchester, NH—Ron DeSantis' presidential candidacy ended, a heartbreaking failure for a figure who once represented Republicans' best hope for moving past Donald Trump but underestimated the former president's endurance, overrated his political acumen, and labored through resurrection after reboot.
The Florida governor resigned on Sunday, two days before New Hampshire voters were expected to give Trump another primary triumph. His social media video announced the decision.
“I am today suspending my campaign,” DeSantis stated. “It's clear to me that most Republican primary voters want to give Trump another chance.” He endorsed Trump “because we can’t go back to the old Republican guard of yesteryear, or a repackaged form of warmed-over corporatism that Nikki Haley represents.”
DeSantis finished second in Iowa's caucuses but said he will run. His New Hampshire polling was low, behind former South Carolina governor Haley and Trump.
Trump will certainly get New Hampshire support from DeSantis, expanding his advantage. Another big win for the former president might make him unstoppable. Trump is doing well in South Carolina's Feb. 24 primary.