Biotech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy announced the suspension of his 2024 Republican presidential nomination bid on Monday, endorsing former President Donald Trump after finishing fourth in Iowa’s caucuses.
Ramaswamy cited the lack of a viable path forward for him in the race as the reason for his decision, expressing concern about undesirable developments in the country.
In his attempt to emulate Trump’s rise as a wealthy outsider, Ramaswamy praised the former president as the “best president of the 21st century” during the campaign. He acknowledged Trump’s victory in Iowa and offered his full endorsement for Trump’s presidential candidacy. Ramaswamy urged his supporters to join him in taking the America First movement to the next level.
Trump, acknowledging Ramaswamy’s effort in the campaign, stated that he did a “helluva job.” Ramaswamy hinted at appearing with Trump in New Hampshire and suggested that other contenders, Ron DeSantis and Nikki Haley, should withdraw from the race.
Throughout the campaign, Ramaswamy had criticized most opponents but consistently lauded Trump while advocating for “fresh legs” within the Republican Party. Despite his call for a “revolution,” his withdrawal underscores Trump’s continued dominance in Republican politics and his favorable position to secure the GOP nomination for the third time.
Ramaswamy’s departure also highlights the challenges for any Republican, other than Trump, to challenge party orthodoxy. His positions, including opposition to aid for Israel and Ukraine, did not garner significant political support. Despite his exit from the presidential race, Ramaswamy expressed openness to vice presidential consideration, emphasizing his commitment to truth.
The son of Indian immigrants, Ramaswamy, with a background in hedge funds and pharmaceutical research, entered politics after amassing considerable wealth. His unorthodox approach and business success formed the basis of his campaign narrative. Ramaswamy, known for blending his biography with detailed policy positions, advocated for controversial measures such as deporting American-born children of illegal immigrants and questioned official accounts of the 9/11 attacks.
Despite his confident presentation, Ramaswamy faced criticism for overlooking contradictory details and embracing isolationist views. His endorsement of Trump included promises to pardon the former president for any federal crimes related to the January 6, 2021 insurrection. Ramaswamy, while facing scrutiny from conservative commentators, insisted on a noble purpose of keeping the country out of World War III and reviving national pride.
