Thad McCotter Ends Presidential Bid, Backs Mitt Romney

U.S. Rep. Thad McCotter was supposed to join the field of Republican candidates speaking to the Freedom and Faith Coalition in Orlando on Thursday, but he did not appear. Less than two hours later, he announced why he was not in Orlando -- he was pulling out of the presidential race to run again for his congressional seat. He also backed former Gov. Mitt Romney of Massachusetts for the Republican nomination.

Today, effective immediately, I have withdrawn my candidacy to become the Republican Partys nominee for the office of president of the United States of America, McCotter wrote in an email sent out to supporters late on Thursday. We cannot unite America if we divide the movement of principled conservatism. The time has come for the tea party and the Republican Party to come together to serve and save this great nation. Thus, upon having withdrawn my candidacy, I have endorsed Governor Mitt Romney to become our Republican Partys nominee. We must unite behind the candidate best capable of defeating Barack Obama on Nov. 6, 2012 -- Mitt Romney is that candidate.

The actions of the administration and the Democratic Senate show what America knows: We are being neither led nor governed, continued McCotter. Our struggle continues. The American people deserve leadership in Washington that understands Americas exceptionalism is not our burden but our birthright; and that Americas ultimate strength and salvation remains the unfathomable grace of God and virtuous genius of her free people. This is why I have decided to seek re-election to continue to serve as your United States representative for Michigans new 11th Congressional District, and, I am committed to promoting and implementing a platform of principled conservatism.

McCotter has struggled to gain traction, barely registering in the polls.