After a disappointing finish in South Carolina Saturday during the state's Republican primary, former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush told supporters that he is dropping out of the presidential race.
Bush was in a battle with Ohio Gov. John Kasich for fourth place. Bush finished fourth in the New Hampshire Primary on Feb. 8, and sixth during the Iowa Caucuses.
"The people of Iowa, New Hampshire and South Carolina have spoken and I respect their decision, so with that I am suspending my campaign," Bush said. "In this campaign, I have stood my ground."
Bush had campaigned in recent weeks with his mother, former First Lady Barbara Bush, and his brother George W. Bush, the 43rd president of the United States.
Bush's campaign got off to a good start, as he raised more than $31 million on his campaign, and his Super PACs had raised more than $100 million. But money was not enough for Bush.
With Bush's departure, there are five candidates remaining with one more race before Super Tuesday on March 1.
Bush had gone after Donald Trump in a number of previous debates. During his victory speech Saturday, Trump did not mention or offer any good wishes for Bush.
With Bush's departure, the establishment lane clearly opens for Florida Sen. Marco Rubio. Rubio gave his best wishes to Bush.
"A few minutes to I saw on TV Gov. Bush and his announcement. I have an incredible affection and admiration for him. Gov. Bush has many things to be proud of," Rubio said.
Justin Boggs is a writer for the E.W. Scripps National Desk.Follow him on Twitter @jjboggs or on Facebook.
