Senator Tim Scott of South Carolina announced his decision to suspend his presidential campaign in an interview with Fox News on Sunday, stating, “I love America more today than I did on May 22. But when I go back to Iowa, it will not be as a presidential candidate. I am suspending my campaign.”
The announcement came as a surprise to many of Scott’s aides and donors, as it was becoming increasingly clear that he faced challenges in gaining traction in the GOP primary.
Scott launched his campaign in May, aiming to bring an optimistic message to a Republican field dominated by figures like former President Trump and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, who portrayed America as a nation in decline. He emphasized his personal story of growing up in poverty in South Carolina, raised by a single mother, using those experiences to counter Democratic arguments on various issues.
Despite starting with a significant financial advantage, Scott’s campaign faced hurdles as his super PAC, Trust in the Mission PAC, pulled its slate of television ads in October, citing difficulties in breaking through to Republican voters. This decision marked a turning point for the campaign, which then shifted its strategy to focus exclusively on Iowa, increasing visits and adopting a more aggressive rhetorical approach.
Scott’s exit from the presidential race leaves the possibility of a future political run open, without the challenges of an embarrassing finish in Iowa. He has no intention of accepting a vice presidential nomination and aims to respect the voters’ message to him, saying, “Not now, Tim,” as he looks forward to another opportunity.
Prominent Scott donor Andy Sabin expressed disappointment but not surprise at the senator’s decision to step aside and revealed plans to back former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley in the GOP primary.
Scott’s political career began in 1995, when he won a special election for the Charleston County Council. He subsequently served in the South Carolina House and later represented South Carolina’s 1st Congressional District in the US House. In 2013, he joined the US Senate and was reelected in 2014 and 2016.
Throughout his campaign, Scott positioned himself as a devout Christian, quoting Bible verses and prioritizing outreach to Iowa evangelical voters. He expressed openness to working with Democrats in Washington but maintained a conservative voting record.
Scott’s exit from the presidential race is a significant development in the 2024 GOP primary, leaving other candidates to continue their campaigns.