Follow Us

Presidential Election

Rick Perry Exits 2016 GOP Primary

With his campaign facing financial troubles, former Texas Gov. Rick Perry has left the presidential race.

Rick Perry Exits 2016 GOP Primary

Getty Images / Scott Olson

September 11, 2015

The 2016 GOP primary has its first casualty. Former Texas Gov. Rick Perry has suspended his campaign for president.

The withdrawal isn't completely unexpected — Perry has struggled to distinguish his brand of conservatism in the crowded GOP field. His polling numbers are in the single digits, and his campaign has been facing financial troubles.

In his farewell remarks, obtained by several news outlets ahead of time, Perry congratulates the Republican Party on "a tremendous field — the best in a generation. ... I step aside knowing our party is in good hands."

Republican voters are certainly still spoiled for choice — Perry's exit leaves 16 GOP candidates in the running for president.

This is Perry's second unsuccessful presidential bid. His first run in the 2012 GOP primary ended after an infamous debate stumble cost him support.

This video includes an image from Getty Images.

Top Stories

Keanu Reeves as John Wick in a scene from "John Wick 4."

'John Wick: Chapter 4' opens with franchise-record $73.5 million

This latest chapter also has the highest critics' score on Rotten Tomatoes, a whopping 95%.

Teacher with students at the The Life School in Atlanta.

Alternative Schools: Growing in popularity, increased student success

When you hear the phrase ‘alternative school,’ what do you think of?

Damaged home in Rolling Fork, Mississippi.

Mississippi Tornado: A family grieves the loss of a loved one

In the small town of Rolling Fork, Mississippi, residents say this was all like a bad dream.