Biotechnology entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy concluded his bid for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination on Monday night following an unsatisfactory performance in the Iowa caucuses.
Subsequently, Ramaswamy formally declared his endorsement for the former President, Donald Trump, who was anticipated to emerge as the winner of the Iowa caucuses.
“Earlier tonight, I convey my congratulations to Donald Trump on his victory. Moving forward, he will receive my complete endorsement for the presidency,” he announced.
Ramaswamy expressed his intention to travel to New Hampshire on Tuesday to actively support Trump’s campaign in preparation for the state’s upcoming primary next week.
DeSantis, Haley Outpace Ramaswamy in Caucus Support
Ramaswamy secured approximately 8% support from caucus goers, trailing behind both Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and former UN Ambassador Nikki Haley, who claimed second and third positions with around 20% each.
Meanwhile, Trump achieved a significant victory, surpassing 50% of the vote and breaking caucus records.
Entering the race in February of the previous year with minimal name recognition, Ramaswamy outlasted prominent Republicans such as former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie, South Carolina Senator Tim Scott, and former Vice President Mike Pence.
Central to his campaign was the emphasis on restoring America’s identity and advocating for the dismantling of the bureaucratic state through substantial reductions in the size of the federal government.
The 38-year-old contended that Republicans should elect a candidate with “fresh legs,” aiming to highlight the contrast between himself and the 77-year-old Trump, whom he consistently hailed as the “greatest president” of his lifetime.
Although the Iowa caucuses did not unfold in Ramaswamy’s favor, his campaign underscored significant effort.
He completed the “Full Grassley” twice, signifying visits to all of Iowa’s 99 counties at least two times, and held more campaign events than any other candidate in the Hawkeye State.
As a multimillionaire, Ramaswamy predominantly financed his own campaign.
Even Trump himself appeared to perceive Ramaswamy as a threat in the final stages of the race, launching attacks on him on Truth Social just days before the Iowa Caucuses.