DES MOINES, Iowa (Diya TV) — Biotech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy has officially ended his bid for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination, announcing the decision on Monday after a disappointing performance in the Iowa caucuses. The 38-year-old, who positioned himself as a fresh, outsider candidate, conveyed the news during his campaign’s watch party in Des Moines, Iowa.
In a candid address, Ramaswamy acknowledged the campaign’s failure to achieve the anticipated surprise and formally endorsed former President Donald Trump, the projected winner of the Iowa caucuses. Ramaswamy shared, “Earlier tonight, I called Donald Trump to tell him that I congratulate him on his victory. And now going forward, he will have my full endorsement for the presidency.”
Undeterred by the setback, Ramaswamy revealed his plans to join Trump in campaigning in New Hampshire ahead of the state’s primary next week. “Tomorrow we’re likely – I’m going to appear with Donald Trump at a rally in New Hampshire to lay out what I see and what we see for the future of the country,” he announced.
The youngest candidate in the field at 38, Ramaswamy had emphasized his youth and limited political background as part of a call for new leadership within the Republican Party. His campaign, which began in February 2023, gained traction as he aligned himself closely with Trump’s policy vision and embraced the “America First movement.”
Ramaswamy, known for his books “Woke, Inc.” and “Nation of Victims,” faced challenges from other candidates, particularly from former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley, who criticized his foreign policy views. Despite the attacks, Ramaswamy’s rise in polls over the summer showcased his ability to engage with voters and media alike, marked by memorable moments such as a karaoke performance of Eminem’s “Lose Yourself” at the Iowa State Fair.
However, as the campaign progressed, Ramaswamy’s unfavorability among likely Republican voters increased. Criticisms of his foreign policy stances, including proposals related to Ukraine and Israel, drew scrutiny. The attacks, particularly from Haley, played a role in shaping negative perceptions around Ramaswamy’s candidacy.
In his decision to suspend the campaign, Ramaswamy affirmed his commitment to truth and acknowledged the need for a different approach. While his presidential aspirations may have concluded for now, the biotech entrepreneur’s impact on conservative politics is expected to endure, with speculation about potential future roles in Trump’s administration or even another presidential bid down the line.
