Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.) has withdrawn from the 2024 Republican presidential race. This decision was announced on a Fox News program, “Sunday Night in America,” where Scott stated, “When I return to Iowa, it will not be as a presidential candidate. I am suspending my campaign”. Scott, who is the only Black Republican in the Senate, launched his campaign in May with significant financial resources, including $22 million in cash and a large digital ad campaign. Despite this, he struggled to gain traction in the polls, frequently polling in single digits and failing to challenge former President Donald Trump’s dominance in the Republican Party.
Scott’s campaign focused on promoting “conservative values and God-given rights,” including plans for a complete southern border wall, expanding parental control over school curricula, and limiting abortion rights. However, he consistently lagged in the polls alongside other GOP contenders. In response to his stagnant poll numbers, a super PAC supporting Scott, Trust In The Mission PAC (TIM PAC), decided to cancel most of its $40 million political ad budget ahead of the Iowa caucuses. The PAC maintained its support for Scott but chose to focus on grassroots and door-knocking efforts while waiting for a more opportune moment.
Scott’s exit from the race comes approximately two weeks after former Vice President Mike Pence suspended his campaign. His decision to withdraw was met with reactions from political figures, including Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, who acknowledged Scott’s contributions and anticipated his continued leadership in the Republican Party.
Primary Sources: Yahoo News, Honolulu Star-Advertiser