John — I wanted to tell you first: I have decided to suspend my candidacy for President of the United States, effective immediately.

I am intensely grateful to all the patriotic women and men who have stood with me and supported me during the past eleven months in our effort to bring better government to Washington, D.C.

Since announcing my candidacy less than a year ago, tens of thousands of supporters and donors like you all across the nation joined the cause, working day and night to promote strong, experienced, decent leadership for the United States. You are determined, creative, and indefatigable in your efforts to give Americans a better choice in the 2020 Presidential election. 

Leading this movement is one of the greatest honors of my life, and I will always be indebted to all who have played a part.

But while I am suspending my candidacy, I want to be clear that I am not suspending my commitment to the nation and to the democratic institutions that set us apart.

America is truly the greatest country on earth. It’s up to each of us to ensure that it remains so.

Forever grateful,

Bill