Francis Suarez becomes first Republican to suspend presidential campaign

Miami Mayor Francis Suarez became the first GOP presidential candidate to suspend his 2024 campaign Tuesday, after failing to qualify for last week’s first primary debate.

“Running for President of the United States has been one of the greatest honors of my life. This country has given so much to my family and me. The prospect of giving back at the highest levels of public service is a motivator if not a calling. Throughout this process, I have met so many freedom-loving Americans who care deeply about our nation, her people, and its future,” Suarez said in a statement on X, formerly known as Twitter.

“While I have decided to suspend my campaign for President, my commitment to making this a better nation for every American remains,” he added.

“I will continue to amplify the voices of the Hispanic community — the fastest-growing voting group in our country. The Left has taken Hispanics for granted for far too long, and it is no surprise that so many are finding a home in America’s conservative movement. Our party must continue doing more to include and attract this vibrant community that believes in our country’s foundational values: faith, family, hard work and freedom. Younger voters, Independents, urban voters and suburban women — all of whom I’ve carried in previous elections — among others, should find a comfortable home in the GOP and its policies.”

Suarez, 45, was one of the last Republican contenders to enter the race, announcing his candidacy June 14.

The third Florida resident to seek the GOP nomination alongside former President Donald Trump and current Sunshine State Gov. Ron DeSantis, Suarez was slammed as a dilettante who possessed little of the knowledge required to be a capable commander-in-chief.

“I don’t think that he’s qualified to be president of the United States in any way, shape or form,” Rep. Carlos Giménez (R-Fla.) told Fox News the day after Suarez’s announcement. “He’s not qualified to be VP, he’s not qualified to be anything.”