Senator John Edwards Withdraws from the 2008 Democratic Presidential Race
CWA Headquarters, Washington, D.C.-- After waging a bold year and a half strategic campaign to win the democratic nomination for the White House, Senator John Edwards today in a news conference from "Musicians Village" in New Orleans, Louisiana decided to suspend his campaign for high office. At the press conference, Senator Edwards stated, "Earlier today, I suspended my campaign for the Democratic nomination for the presidency." By suspending his candidacy, Senator Edwards will be allowed to retain the 26 delegates he has already garnered and technically remain in the race.
Over the years, John Edwards devoted significant time and resources to build a political campaign that carried his message of jobs, healthcare, economic justice, and political change directly to the American people. However, of the six 2008 primary-caucus outings Senator Edwards could only garner third place finishes.
At 1:30 pm today, in the same place be began his campaign, Senator Edwards underscored the fact that despite suspending his bid for the presidency, he will continue to push to have the peoples' voices heard. He acknowledged that we should not give up and that citizens and government "have a moral responsibility to one another." He said, "I must step aside so that history can take its path", an apparent reference to the unique qualities and characteristics of the Democratic presidential frontrunners.
Senator Edwards made it clear that he believes that the Democratic Party will make history (surely in 2008) and take back the White House.
Remaining as true as he has always been to working families, unions, and organizing, Senator Edwards said, while crossing the country he listened to worker after worker tell him that the economy is having a devastating affect on their lives. They need change.
He continued his speech with his theme of jobs and universal healthcare telling working people that he and the Democratic Party see you, are with you, and will never forget you. And to the end, he was true about his commitment to the use of the word "union", an obvious expression of gratitude to so many in organized labor that helped move his campaign forward. "The democratic party hears your voice." he said. By referencing the theme he developed when he started his campaign, he hoped for "One America that works for everyone, One America where workers will be recognized…One American that brings the war in Iraq to an end."
At the conclusion of his speech, he thanked his to campaign staff, volunteers, and all who supported him. He paid special homage to all of America's veterans in particular to homeless veterans and encouraged our citizens by saying "Do not give up on making the two Americas, one."
With three days until the February 5th Super Tuesday contest, Senator Edwards' absence means that choices between voters and caucus goers will be focused differently. In a statement released earlier, Senator Clinton wrote, "John Edwards ended his campaign today in the same way he started it -- by standing with the people who are too often left behind and nearly always left out of our national debate."
