Mike Haridopolos is dropping out of the U.S. Senate race to focus on his current job as president of Florida's senate.
In a statement, Haridopolos said:
"Today, I am announcing that I will no longer be a candidate for the United States Senate, nor will I seek any other office this year or next. Instead, I am re-dedicating myself to finishing the job you sent me to do here in Florida. This was a very difficult decision for me, and my family, but this is the right decision. To those who have supported me in my race for Senate, know that while I may be ending this campaign, I will not give up the fight."
Haridopolos alluded to his desire to serve in Washington but found his work in Florida and a U.S. Senate race in conflict:
"In the early going, I was encouraged with endorsements from state and national leaders, support from colleagues in the Senate and House, and donations big and small.
"Yet it became increasingly clear to me, and those around me, that the responsibilities I was managing on both fronts are in conflict.
"I truly believed I could handle both jobs, but I was wrong. Now I am determined to make it right."
Florida Gov. Rick Scott lamented the decision saying he was "surprised" by Haridopolos announcement, calling it a "sad day" for Floridians.
“I was surprised by Mike Haridopolos’ announcement today. Anytime a statewide race loses a principled conservative like Mike Haridopolos in a race of this importance, it is a sad day for our state. He was a great help to me during the legislative session as we put steps in place to turn Florida’s economy around and get Floridians back to work. I look forward to his continued leadership during the upcoming legislative session.”
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