“I didn’t see this coming at all,” said Pennsylvania college student Andrew Coons, holding a Romney sign under his arm. “I was completely surprised. But this was an honorable thing for him to do.”

Is this kid living under a rock or something? Seriously how could you not see this coming at all?

This is all a Republican trick. The are just trying to separate McCain from the Republican party to trick Americans into believing that he is not like the rest of the Republicans. Do not be fooled! He will continue the same agenda's as G. W. Bush and the Republicans. Think about it! You have people like Rush Limbaugh, Sean Hannity and Laura Ingraham saying that they will vote for Hillary Clinton over McCain.? Do you really believe that? What it will do is make all the republicans that are sick of their own party (and there is a lot of them!) and the independents and all the undecided voters and make it easier for them to vote for a republican candidate because he must not be like the rest of the republicans if the likes of Rush Limbaugh, Sean Hannity and Laura Ingraham don't like him. It's a brilliant trick but a TRICK none the less.

essar1 wrote: "Romney represented conservative values better than anyone else in the race, he said, but ultimately “I vote the party, not the person.” . . . . . . "You can't make this stuff up!"

Every hear of speech writers?– whoever wrote Romney's "farewell" speech certainly knew how to play on the American people emotions. Sorry, but we didn't vote the party, we voted the person and Romney was not our choice. And by-the-way, even those who supported Romney are saving "wait for 2012″ — if not before. Is Romney really out of the race? He said he was "suspending" his campaign. . . . . but, he did say if the people decided they wanted a real conservative candidate they know where to find him. Republican conservatives angered over McCain's stands on immigration, campaign finance and President Bush's tax cuts are suddenly talking less about stopping McCain and have begun to discuss whether they can influence his selection of a running mate. There are other ways of obtaining the presidency than just BUYING it.

Some of you people need to learn history — not just American history — but the history of those countries who now hold their citizens hostage — If you value your freedom — be afraid America — BE VERY AFRAID.

Guess it is voting for the "lesser of the evils" for me again this election year — or perhaps I will sit this one out — if so, it is the FIRST election in which I have not voted in over 40-years. I CRY for America

For all those who think this is sewn up and the Democrats are shoe in…

There's an Orange Alert with your name on it coming soon!!!

Some people are convinced that Ann Coulter would be lost if Sen. McCain is the Republican nominee, just shows that people are uninformed because Ann said she would support Sen.Clinton over Sen. McCain

Good Bye Mitt.

I think you are decent, except for your stand on the war. In fact, because of the Republican stand on the war, except for Ron Paul, that I would have a hard time voting for.

McCain will need to carry a cane during his session in the white house. they guy can barely walk!

Mitt has suffered so much negative attention in the media. Maybe we can now stop hearing about "Mitt the Mormon" or "Mitt the guy that is too good looking to be our next President" or "We would rather have someone that looks like our coworker than someone who lays us off as a President". I find all of the negative remarks sent in the direction of Romney as a product of insecure Americans. I wanted a leader, someone to trust morally and ethically, as well as someone who looked like a boss. I will miss what he could have done for our country.

I'm having a hard time with the word SUSPEND!

To suspend means to temporarily put on hold. It's the same as postpone. It means he can pick it up later on

What I think Romney has done is CANCELLED his bid for the presidency. By cancelling his run, he has dropped out of the race for good. There's no coming back.

Or is there?

Well, McCain and Huckabee have teamed up to run Romney out of the race.

This is politics!

Big John WAYNE McCain in 2008!

The anti-Mormon posts are curious as Mitt is such a solid success as a husband, father, employee, boss, business leader, political leader a lot like a few other Mormons I know in my Texas neighborhood.

I saw caravans of Mormons in trucks and vans leave for Louisiana right after Katrina, giving up weekends at home to clear hurricane destruction and help those families out. Those work brigades used chain saws and shovels to dig familes out. I read in my local paper how the California Mormons opened their homes and churches to house and feed people displaced by the California fires.
From what i can tell, some of you are haters of anything good and positive, I see nothing wrong with how Mitt or other Mormons live!

To Cnn; I'm a registered Republican I'm sorry that your offended that my comments to Bobby included :
Margaret Thatcher and Madelaine Albrights names, but they are women and they did deal with the likes of Iran, Iraq. I might also mention Merkel, Marcos and Ghandi. Some more successful than others but the point is, that just because you carry the extra baggage (if you get my drift! nudge, nudge) Doesn't mean you have all of the answers. Please don't justify not voting for someone because you can not see past your own short sighted views of what you think the world is made up of. Thank heavens you are in the minority.

I'm disappointed, Romney would make a great president. But hopefully he'll run again in the future.

But now we need to unite behind McCain if for no other reason than to keep Billary and/or Obama out of the White House.

I'm a Canadian. My wife is a U.S. Citizen. When she watched Gov. Romney's speech today, she cried quietly. A tip of my hat to Gov. Romney for offering his reputation, his wealth, and his considerable skills to serve this country. Thanks also to those who supported his run.

After reading some of the comments, I feel like I need to say something in defense of the individual who was quote at the end of this specific article. In no way am I suggesting that voting straight party is a positive thing IN MY OPINION, but I think that we should give the benefit of a doubt that this individual who made this statement, “I vote for the party, not the person” could have possibly had more thoughts behind this quote. Maybe his thought was that most individuals/political figures/candidates in a given political party tend to have the same values and beliefs. In other words, most individuals in a given party tend to share the same general philosophies; hence whey they either call themselves a Democrat, Republican, or what have you. If one focuses on all the 'promises' of each individual candidate in a given party, then the voters tend to get lost/caught up in these 'promises' that are said to win votes - honestly, have all candidates successfully kept all the promises they have made prior to elections?

Besides, regardless of whether any individual agrees with this person’s statement or not, we have got to look at the positives. This is a young individual who is AT LEAST involved with politics and votes regularly. I’m sure this is more than some individuals can say. It also seems to me that no body is ever happy. If people don’t vote, others get upset because it is their ‘American Duty’. When people do AT LEAST vote, but vote in a way another person find ‘unacceptable’ people get upset. This is America, right? So how a person votes is totally up to them. If they feel it is acceptable to vote straight party line, I’m okay with that. It’s on their shoulders. Even though I personally don’t vote that way, I’m glad I and others can decide how they want to vote.

And go ahead; leave a comment about this response and how ‘terrible’ it is. Just remember every individual is different in their thinking but that does make them more or less right than others. It’s America and I support your right to make any comments you so desire to.

After reading some of the comments, I feel like I need to say something in defense of the individual who was quote at the end of this specific article. In no way am I suggesting that voting straight party is a positive thing, but I think that we should give the benefit of a doubt that this individual who made this statement, “I vote for the party, not the person” could have possibly had more thoughts behind this quote. Maybe his thought was that most individuals/political figures/candidates in a given political party tend to have the same values and beliefs. In other words, most individuals in a given party tend to share the same general philosophies; hence whey they either call themselves a Democrat, Republican, or what have you. If one focuses on all the 'promises' of each individual candidate in a given party, then the voters tend to get lost/caught up in these 'promises' that are said to win votes - honestly, have all candidates successfully kept all the promises they have made prior to elections?

Besides, regardless of whether any individual agrees with this person’s statement or not, we have got to look at the positives. This is a young individual who is AT LEAST involved with politics and votes regularly. I’m sure this is more than some individuals can say. It also seems to me that no body is ever happy. If people don’t vote, others get upset because it is their ‘American Duty’. When people do AT LEAST vote, but vote in a way another person find ‘unacceptable’ people get upset. This is America, right? So how a person votes is totally up to them. If they feel it is acceptable to vote straight party line, I’m okay with that. It’s on their shoulders. Even though I personally don’t vote that way, I’m glad I and others can decide how they want to vote.

And go ahead; leave a comment about this response and how ‘terrible’ it is. Just remember every individual is different in their thinking but that does make them more or less right than others. It’s America and I support your right to make any comments you so desire to.

Romney is grossly out of touch with the state of the world.
His immature perspective is dangerous to the policies of this country. The problem is that there are plenty of uneducated people who are easily led astray by his politics of fear and slander. We need lawmakers who shape policies for 2008, not 1952.
Let's hope Romney's momentum stays down come 2012.

February 02, 2008
Montgomery, AL – Former Arkansas Governor and Presidential Candidate Mike Huckabee today signed a campaign pledge, authored by U.S. Senator Jeff Sessions (R-AL), demonstrating “his strong commitment to securing America’s borders as president.”

I call for a nationwide telecasted debate between Huckabee, McCain & Ron Paul. Let's see how Mike goes head to head against McCain. The American people deserve to have another look. Especially since half of the United States hasn't voted yet.

So he quit because he did not want to divide his party and allow the dems to end the war on terror? Translation being the dems would bring our young men and women home and insist the Iraqis step up and manage their own freedom if they want it.

All of which sounded a whole lot better than "I did the numbers" and something about a "snowball's chance…."

What do people think about his supporters? Will they go towards Huckabee or McCain?

Clinton supporter here, but I have to admit, I give this guy a lot of credit. He was extremely well-spoken, used his OWN money, and was dedicated. I also think any rejection of him because of his religion was tragically sad.

I'm a DEM and voting Hillary, but I'm not blind either; hat's off to this guy and good luck in the future.

It is sad that every Liberal that has posted comments on here has had only hateful or angry things to say. I would think you would be glad that there is a liberal candidate, John McCain, who will now be the Republican nominee.

Don't cry - he's got "a plan"….stay tuned, Mitt "ain't" going away. Sometimes you have to crawl before you walk.

I so agree with April. Shee said exactly what I would have said. I still would have voted for McCain over a Democrat, but I would have prefered Romney and above every one of them I would definitely have chosen Huckabee. Romney has spent a ton of money on campaigning and yet Huckabee has barely spent any. He might not have too good of a chance, but I agree right on with him on every issue!!

Huckabee is the best Candidate for the Republicans. He is the most sincere and most caring about his Nation. I hope he wins the nominee as McCain has the same mind set and priorities as Bush which will result in the further deroding of the Nation.

WOW, His action to drop out has renewed my faith in a God!!! My prayers were answered!!!

Huck needs to win 83.33% of the remaining votes to win the nomination, using the AP numbers from today. Impossible, as much as I love the Governor. I think he will win a few more states and go to the convention as a strong presence and make himself a stronger case for VP to the rest of the Republican Conservatives. As much as McCain is being sliced and diced by conservatives, it is probably a good thing for the general elections that he can attract independents and more liberal Republicans. Combined with Huckabee they may cover many needs in the general election!
Go Huck!

I am sorry to see Romney go. He could have turned the economy around. As a Democrat leaning independent, I MOST certainly dont want to vote for Obama. He has gathered so many delegates largely on the shoulders of African-Americans and Young people. Do the African-Americans think he is actually going to advance their issues??? Haven't they learned from Clarance Thomas? McCain is too old to be president, but I think if Obama is the Dems nominee, I will vote McCain.

I am really confused, Obama and Clinton are crying out for change, am I missing something, haven't they been in Washington for the past 5-10 years. Why haven't they changed anything yet. It seemed to me that Romney was the only outsider that could really claim the Change card. Oh so be it, I will try to find another person that I think can make a change.

go obama republican make it a lot easy now you just have to deal with clinton for a litte……

Romney was definitely double teamed, if he were that type of person, he could give Huckabee his delegates and maybe Huckabee would give McCain a run for his money .

It's people like you that have no real purpose in life. Go bury your head in the sand you clueless liberal!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Romney's strategy worked just fine, the Republican party is doomed unless we find a way to reunite and come together as a TEAM!!!!!! Are you ready for Hillary?????????????????

Mitt Romney is a GREAT man with a wonderful family. It says a lot about Mitt's Character to leave the race knowing he was without a doubt the best Candidate for the Republican Nominee as welll as the Presidency. Mike Huckabee should of left a long time ago and his days are shorten. l hope and pray John McCain will ask MItt Romney to be his running mate. This is the only way to reunite the Republican Party and solidify a victory in November. We need Mitt Romney and anyone who disagrees is a complete idiot. Rush, Sean, Greg and Laura were right on!!

There are a lot of bigots in this country. This blog proves it. It's too bad b/c this country was founded on religious freedom. We would do well to study the lives of our fathers.

Bobby, in case you have been living in a cave…the Bush administration and Republican Senators which inlcludes McCain are responsible for the horrible shape this country is in. This group is the reason other countries have no respect for us. McCain, Romney and the rest plan to continue the horrible Bush policies. If that's okay with you I would say better get ready for a draft and a depression…

The anti-Mormon posts are curious as Mitt is such a solid success as a husband, father, employee, boss, business leader, political leader a lot like a few other Mormons I know in my Texas neighborhood.

I saw caravans of Mormons in trucks and vans leave for Louisiana right after Katrina, giving up weekends at home to clear hurricane destruction and help those families out. Those work brigades used chain saws and shovels to dig familes out. I read in my local paper how the California Mormons opened their homes and churches to house and feed people displaced by the California fires.

From what i can tell, some of you are haters of anything good and positive, I see nothing wrong with how Mitt or other Mormons live!

Romney supporters…..if you have yet to vote in your state's primary or caucus, STILL VOTE. Don't just stay home. Show the GOP that we stand firmly behind Romney, despite his backing down.

The Dems will not cut and run from Iraq, that is just rhetoric to get elected. If the US leaves the war would not end, it would escalate. The president doesn't have the power on his own to get us out of Iraq, it took both parties to get us in there it will take both to get us out. This Romney supporter is now considering Obama for the healing he may bring our nation. It may be expensive, but maybe we better just get on with it.

I thought the reason we went into Iraq was to get Saddam. He is dead, isn't he? Which means we won, right? I am so tired of the Reps crying wolf and telling us that if we don't vote for them, the bad guys are comming to get us. So if a dem gets in office, the fanatics are going to overthrow the government? Give me a break.

This just wasn't Mitt's time, to be honest. If Obama or Hillary win the presidency, Mitt will have a better go in 2012, as McCain will be out of gas as far as having any chance at winning the nomination. But if McCain wins the presidency… well, Mitt won't be anywhere he isn't already.

If Mitt and his boys believe so much in this war, they can start by paying for it with the money Daddy earned closing down factories and sending our jobs overseas.

But wait a minute, isn't the republican philosophy to spend us into oblivion and bankrupt the country so we can hire Amercians back at slave wages.

Quote "What a loser. Using "the war" as his reason for dropping out. Romney is such a phony. Why didn't he admit what is true: Despite spending a lot of his own money and changing his position to fit the perceived opinions of the Republican primary voters, he got his butt kicked and his strategy didn't work.

But no. Instead he wraps himself in "the war" and tries to make it appear that he is quitting the race because of his high-minded concerns about the safety of this country. How pathetic, transparent and mendacious. This is a man who treats the voters as if they were six years old."

Who is acting like a six year old?

He was just one outsider (don't count Huck), who really can make change the Americans pray for. There is a good saying: "People have the government they deserve". So sad.

Did he really have to announce his withdrawal at the CPAC conference, where he made himself the martyr and made John McCain look selfish? How good is that for the party?

Mitt was the best!
This was tough to take…I think it will continue to splinter the Republican party. Maybe 2012 will be Mitt's destiny!

"Vote Hillary, most Middle East Countries treat women like dogs, just wait and see how they treat this country. The will have no mercy on the U.S. when Hillary is our leader. They will laugh while she tears up…"

Just to show how ignorant you are - have you not heard of Benazir Bhutto? She was a woman prime minister in the Middle East many years before a woman is actually a serious contender for the presidency of the USA (today). Not all of the ME is Saudi Arabia - the Saudi Arabians are the true extremists and it is them we support! Shows our true intentions - spreading democracy or just an oil war?

Good Riddance!
I have never disliked a politician more than Mitt Romney.
He has changed his platform like no one else and is the most arrogant politician I've ever seen. He is too condescending, arrogant, self-righteous, to be an effective leader. He has built a history of public statements which contradict themselves and has acquired the reputation of a slick adaptable politician who often bends the way the wind blows. He was always in this contest for himself.

Thank GOD this guy is out - honestly, this guy was scary; just look at his farewell speech, this man would continue bush's war-mongering and America would further be plunged into unnecessary wars and consequently weaken our economy. McCain might do the same, but atleast he has less of those die-hard conservative ideas like deporting millions of illegal immigrants (what a joke).
Hillary '08

Doug wrote:
"So now are choices are McCain or Huckabee?

More accurately Sargent Carter or Gomer Pyle !!!!"

Interesting, did you mean "…now OUR choices…," Doug, or should I just call you Gomer Pyle? Poor execution of a shallow and snide remark.

Rominy is not gone. Do not believe it. McCain has yet to be the republican nominee. Do not be surprise if McCain receeds at the door. Drop out at the last minute and Rominy gets the nomination. This is politics people.

It is Rominys plan to let the Conservatives run McCain away.

Doug,
Your grammar shows your intelligence.

Note to Bobby re: "Liberals will win and the U.S. will be attacked again."
Excuse me, but a Republican was "president" when the U.S. was attacked on 9/11. Guess you didn't you get the memo.

I'm getting very tired of Republicans reverting to name-calling ("Surrender Monkeys") and inaccurate portrayals ("Cut and Run") of exiting George's ego-driven conflict in Iraq (By the way, it's NOT a war, because Congress did not declare war.) For some misguided reason, the far right would go to hell and back defending the endless war-mongering of the repeatedly deferred Bush and Cheney, who are extremely brave when it comes to spilling someone else's blood, while belittling the party that is at least attempting to bring the madness to an end and mop up after our short-sighted leader. I don't think there's anything wrong with bringing our soldiers back from a place they shouldn't have been sent to in the first place. That's the best way to support our troops!

BYE BYE-DON'T SLAM THE DOOR ON THE WAY OUT, YOU FREAK!!

Dracula's gone!! Who cares!

Did I tell you already that you are an idiot? Sorry if I forgot, but you really are.

Romney was the realest Republican, it would've made a respectable race in november. I'm laughing at Rush and Hannity but I don't want to see the Reps unite.

The only Republican I'd consider is Ron Paul and he's not going to win.

OBAMA!!!!!!!

I am really surprised he quit now. I did think he would eventually realize he wasn't going to get the nomination but I thought he would need to lose most of this weekend's and Tuesday's caucuses and primaries for it too sink in. His ego is that great.

My question is now, how completely out of touch with reality are Mike Gravel and Ron Paul that they are still in it?

Republicans who talk of not voting for McCain in the general election are either idiots or liberal imposters trolling this message board. I just hope Hillary wins the nomination so its a cake walk for the Republicans this fall!!! Obama should lose too if he wins though.

Well now that the ONLY true Republican is out of the race, that leaves us with 3 Liberals. I will cast my vote for Obama as I feel he is the most honest of the 3 Liberals left.

I don't know what is going to happen but I very disappointed today.

I have to thank the anti-mormon bigots for providing a good opportunity to

“…Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them who despitefully use you and persecute you.”

Romney is smart to "suspend" his campaign rather than end it altogether. Old man McCain could keel over at any minute and Romney could get his campaign going again!

Too bad, he was the least dangerous of the GOP candidates. (and I don't mean in the sense that he couldn't win)

Its not over yet… Huckabee could get some of Romney's delegates and could win this weekends primaries. Then the Christian Right can accomplish their goal of creating a moral utopia.

“Barrack and Hillary have made their intentions clear regarding Iraq and the war on terror. They would retreat and declare defeat,” said Romney.

“And the consequence of that would be devastating. It would mean attacks on America, launched from safe havens that make Afghanistan under the Taliban look like child’s play. About this, I have no doubt.”

Mitt Willard Romney - GOD doesn't like people that exaggerate the truth - and boy are you and George in trouble!

“Barrack and Hillary have made their intentions clear regarding Iraq and the war on terror. They would retreat and declare defeat,” said Romney.

“And the consequence of that would be devastating. It would mean attacks on America, launched from safe havens that make Afghanistan under the Taliban look like child’s play. About this, I have no doubt.”

WOW - Mitt Willard Romney - GOD doesn't like people that exaggerate the truth - and boy are you in trouble!

Too bad Romney didn't get to have the entire country vote before dropping out. Now the Texas Republicans don't have a republican to vote for next month…

These guys have to back the war in Iraq since they are the ones that fabricated the need to kill our young soldiers and 100's of thousands of innocent Iraqi civilians, destroy that countries infrastructure, waste billions in US tax dollars, and making their friends at Halliburton, other defense contractors and oil companies richer.

Mean while, the US schools are dilapidated, teachers are under paid, the curriculum is poor, all kids are left behind, our infrastructure is falling apart, bridges are collapsing, streets and hi-ways are in disrepair, homelessness is getting worse because our young soldiers are returning from this illegal war and being neglected, corporate fraud has never been higher and drugs continue to get into this country and into the hands of our children only to fill up our jails so we have to build more which results in those people to become jobless and homeless…………….Oh and did I mention the mortgage debacle under the republican watch which exploited people into thinking they could afford a home they had no business messing with…………………

……………..and in the mean time, all our constitutional rights are being stripped away. How fun is that!

Obama 08

There is only one real conservative Republican running and that is Ron Paul. Since the beginning he has not changed. He will end the war in Iraq. He will dramatically reduce taxes AND the national debt billowing over to the next generation. He is the only candidate willing to tell the truth, mean it, and believes in the hope of the original American dreams envisioned by our country's founders. Restore the Constitution! Vote Ron Paul!

Willard Romney - you really should have stuck to the business world because you don't understand what is happening in the real world. Iraq was an enemy of the terrorists before George Bush toppled the government there.

The Afghanistan war is in trouble because George Bush tied down our troops in a civil war in Iraq.

Willard you really should have stuck to the business world because you don't understand what is happening in the real world. Iraq was an enemy of the terrorists before George Bush toppled the government there.

The Afghanistan war is in trouble because George Bush tied down our troops in a civil war in Iraq. The GOP is only after "oil profits" and have totally mismanaged the "War on Terror".

America needs educators!!!! The proof is in the comments! People didn't support an honest man because they don't recognize one when they see him. McCain's telling supporters to vote for Huckabee, just to sway votes when he saw he wasn't winning, is not an honorable display of integrity or honesty.

What was that story about Mitt taking one from John Edwards's playbook a few days before Super Tuesday? Make that "two" from the playbook: not sleeping for 36 hours before Super Tuesday … and "suspending" his presidential campaign.

So long, Mitt! You are obviously the next republican nominee in line. Sit back for 2016!

The Dems could have ended the war a long time ago if they wanted. They haven't yet and they won't if they get office. All words and no action.

I am amazed at all the viciously negative comments being posted. Are you all really as miserably malicious as these comments sound?

"…Conservatives have no other choices in this election…"

This among other things is exactly what is wrong with today's so called "conservatives." Someone please tell me what conservative actually means! Answer this correctly and one will quickly find that there has only been one choice for real conservatives (historically) THIS ENTIRE ELECTION SEASON. If I actually have to say his name then I suggest you sit down for a while and really think about what being a conservative actually means.

Ahh if only Obama would do the same for them Dems and take his proper VP slot we would be in buisiness

"oh…. great. Well, all I can say is the U.S. lost one vote because I could care less who wins now. LiberalS will win and the U.S. will be attacked again. Just watch. McCain,BILL, and Obama all want our troops out. But who cares. Vote Hillary, most Middle East Countries treat women like dogs, just wait and see how they treat this country. The will have no mercy on the U.S. when Hillary is our leader. They will laugh while she tears up and they will shout" DEATH TO AMERICA"
Romney would of been a great leader. Those countries will hate America, even more, because they see a crude lady running the country and ordering men what to do. Well good luck.

POST IT, IT IS THE TRUTH……….."

Typical Romney supporter.

I can see the media has influenced a lot of people as I read here that the choices are McCain and Huckabee!

There is ANOTHER candidate running on the Republican side, people!!

Just because CNN and other MSM don't acknowledge him.

Please look at Ron Paul - CONSTITUTIONALIST - don't be a media sheeple!

I know he doesn't always tell us good news, and that's because we are in deep doo doo. He's the only one being painfully honest with us as opposed to the other candidates that give us nothing but slogans and rhetoric.

Romney talks like he’s such a patriot, and yet you don’t see even one of his five sons fighting for their country.

“And the consequence of that would be devastating. It would mean attacks on America, launched from safe havens that make Afghanistan under the Taliban look like child’s play. About this, I have no doubt.”

Yeah, I'd sure hate to go back to a Democrat President, seeing as how under Bill Clinton, we were under constant terror threats, had the worst attack in American history happen, and started a war with no plan in a place where Al Qaeda wasn't, thus producing a ground swell of hatred towards us that reached higher levels than it ever had before. Oh wait, that happened under Bush and a Republican controlled congress.

GO HUCKABEE !!!!!!
Pedal to the Metal….. don't stop until the White House…
Some suggestions for the cabinet:

Secretary of Defense:

Maybe he will flip flop on this one too and rejoin the race.

Good riddance. What an idiot.

Romney was the best candidate — one on one, McCain had no chance and it's too bad that time wasn't on Romney's side. Huckabee is not 'presidential', he needs to go back to tending his hen house in Arkansas ….

McCain has my vote now; the thought of Hillary and Bill back in the White House scares the hell out of me — Obama Bin Laden's got a lot of enthusiasm but the answer to every problem is NOT more government.

For those of you liberals criticizing the Republican stance on the war & all of the soldiers lost and billions of $$ that have been spent, just wait to see what will happen if we pullout quickly; this war will be brought to your neighborhood by these lunatic jihadi followers - they are intent on bringing us down.

Don't forget 911

so tired of bigoted idiots like AM MN and Bushie Smalls. reap the whirlwind. and these candidates need to stop the charade. this fabricated war is doing nothing but lining the elites pockets. that was the intention. the CIA created al Queda years ago. wake up!

Reading through these blogs, even though the Iraq War, has to be of major concern, I wonder if we were listening to what Romney had to say about a myriad of issues facing our country. Romney could have secured more support from Conservatives and Moderates alike, had he focused on this type of dialogue while campaigning. Unfortunately, during the last CNN debate, Romney allowed himself to be lured into a two-man debate over the 'withdrawal issue' that subsequently monopolized the entire debate - thus allowing little time for the candidates to address other important issues facing our nation. Sadly, not enough emphasis has been placed on the concerns of Conservative voters that Romney finally focused on today. If Huckabee continues with his campaign and wants to be competitive, he needs to gain momentum by aggressively addressing the issues that Romney brought to our attention today. Unfortunately, these two candidates have not done so before now; hence, we have a leading candidate who does not have the 'trust' of many within the Republican Party.

I absolutely refuse to vote for the lesser of two evils. I'll vote for Donald Duck over McCain or Clinton/Obama

Best presidential canidate since Reagan! People don't understand it's the economy and Mitt understood it better than any of these contenders!

He would have been an excellent president and maybe more people will understand that after 4-years with either Mccain, Hillary or Obama!

This country will be worse off in 2112 and hopefully Mitt will run again and people will realize what they missed the past 4 years!!

There's another reason he's "suspended" and not "ended" his campaign. This way he can still go around cup in hand and try to find donors willing to make up fo the money he put in from his own pocket. Good luck!

Good Bye.

Good riddance. It is time for moderate and centrist Republicans to take back our party that has been infested by conservatives who have destroyed the party over the last decade. Moderate and centrist Republicans have sat quietly for so long without any kind of voice while the conservative wing has run a mock. Now, the conservatives cry foul and whine like babies because they cannot control the party any longer or have their way. With Republicans like Governor Schwarzenegger and similar others, hopefully the Republican Party can return to its roots and come out of the "Dark Ages" that have inflicted it. The Republican Party is need of a serious reformation and hopefully this is the start. The moderate and centrist wing needs to strike back against the conservative wing and force them out. Let's hope this is a start.

Willard Romney has changed positions more often than a call girl. Now McCain is doing the same thing to appease the right wing fascists. Neither has a chance of winning in November. The American people don't want to live under fascism (excluding the talk radio crowd, they seem to like the idea).

I wonder why there's so much fear at the heart of conservatism to suggest that Democrats are going to welcome terrorism. It's a horribly ignorant statement, especially seeing as we have only fueled terrorism worldwide in the past 8 years.

Terrorist attacks to date have all been in liberal meccas and epicenters of global power: DC and NY. Most conservatives live far from any of that. I don't understand what they're so afraid of.

Perhaps it is a psychological fear - having to establish a firm boundary around their worldview. Very interesting psychology.

now all we need is huckabee out and were good

“I vote the party, not the person.”

I laughed until I realized how absolutely scary this comment is.

Judging from quite a few of these posts, looks likes religious bigotry is alive and well in the USA. I commend the USA for getting to a point where a woman or black president is not an issue… but it's a shame that there is still a strong anti-mormon sentiment still out there and so many bigots in our society.

Mitt leaving is really unfortunate news. More a case of Huckabee and Romney splitting too many voters then McCain being the best IMHO. I vote on character, temperament, and leadership and it looks like Obama will get my 'Republican' vote. I can't see myself suporting McCain. I'm done with that type of government.

I cant believe the way to get elected President is to say you will continue a war. The stupidest thing Ive ever heard. I guess no more stupid than believing that all the G I s that have died in Irag has made a difference as to which rag head wants to kill you.

I don't understand. If Evangelicals weren't taught to hate mormons from the time they were toddlers, we could have had a great leader in Mitt Romney. Why? Why the hatred? I have attended Mormon churches before and I have never heard any anti any religion teaching. Your ignorance and the brainwashing you have experienced has created a fear that just lost us the nomination of a very smart man. For those of you who have difficulty with math, Mitt "suspended' his bid because there's no way he'll have enough delegates to compete with McCain…and Huckabee has even less than Mitt. Fear from ignorance just cost us big time.

Let's make history…

What happens to his unspent campaign donations? I think this is a valid question that's been on my mind and I simply can't find a credible answer. I worked for the Secret Service for a number of years and saw first-hand the lavish lifestyle of campaigners and saw many drop out with unspent money in their campaign coffers, but have yet to see any accountability to the contributors. Perhaps, just perhaps Romney didn't signal his intent until the last minute in order to keep the cash flowing in. But regardless of the reason, I'm left wondering where it goes after a candidate quits the race. Anyone have any theories or know of the pertinent regulations?

“Barack and Hillary have made their intentions clear regarding Iraq and the war on terror. They would retreat and declare defeat,” said Romney.
I see nothing wrong with that, What are we winning? Nothing

GO Hillary or Obama

I don't know why this is such a surprise to everyone….

One of Mitt's rallying cries was that he is more businessman than politician. Quite simply, he hit the point where he realized that continuing the race was a bad investment.

I thank the anti-mormon bigots for a good opportunity to

"…Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them who despitefully use you and persecute you."

Mitt Romney is the most presidential of all the candidates. What an amazing man. He may not get the nomination this time around, but he'll be back. He really is the future Reagan. We'll see what McCain can do.

Talk about spin, this one is just insane. Captain Snake Oil here is now trying to paint himself as martyr to McCainia.

"Oh woe is me, I must SUSPEND my campaign, not end it outright, but, uh, you know, SUSPEND it, so I'M STILL HERE AND YOU CAN STILL VOTE FOR ME and stuff but not really because McCain = demon seed and I would've totally won and stuff were it not for that evil little Vietnam POW. Oh and uh go Republicans or something"

It's so stupid it's brilliant. Victim culture meets partisan pandering. The idea is that Romney, the biggest phony of all who tried to buy an entire presidential election, is this Reaganesqe casualty of the media/establishment machine that makes McCain. If he doesn't get an edge again, he at least gets then brand recognition AND victim status (both all the rage these days in the US) for the NEXT time he tries to buy a presidential election without having to spend more money.

To be fair, McCain sucks as well and in reality is actually the bigger corporate/establishment shill than even Romney is, but both of them and the Repubs deserve each other.

"Saddam killed 150 people per day on his 18 year campaign. If that's not terrorism I don't know what is. You're proof to the statement," If democrats were any smarter, they would be republicans.""

Levi, buddy… do I need to explain to you the fallacies in your argument or can you figure them out yourself? I mean, if this is how you really feel, then you must be writing tons of letters to your congresspersons, right?

"Dear Senator, Just as it was necessary to start a war to stop Saddam from terrorizing his own people, I now request that you start wars in Iran, North Korea, China, Syria, Saudi Arabia, Myanmar, Sudan, Liberia, Kenya, Chad, Zaire, Nigeria, Nepal, Ethiopia, Pakistan, Mexico, and Colombia, leaving our country completely broke and the world completely devastated. Thank you." Either stick by your arguments or don't. If this war was really about standing up against a tyrant then why wasn't it sold that way?

Wow.
It just goes to show you that mountains of money and "the right" positions and pundit acclaim do not turn a candidate into a winner.
The American people vote for the person, and they just didn't like Romney.

I still don't understand democratic support. Everyone, EVERYONE complains about their taxes, even those that don't pay income tax. We have TWO candidates that have both come out and said they want to raise taxes and people still support them.

Do you look for muggers so you can give them your wallet?

I can't vote for anyone that openly wants to steal more of my money.

I personally feel the best situation is when one part control congress and the other controls the presidency. It slows things and forces more compromise. If the republicans take back congress, Obama won't be so bad.

If the dems keep congress, then let's hope the repubs get the presidency.

I don't like McCain, or Huckabee, and I had issues with Romney, but at least all three believe that lower taxes are better for everyone.

All three want to win in the middle east.

Ron Paul is right on many things, but his idealism is too simplistic and he's too much of a nutjob. That's why so many nuts have flocked to him (birds of a feather…).

I still don't like McCain dancing around immigration by saying he'll secure the border BEFORE pursuing further reform (meaning amnesty). If he can actually secure the border and keep the number of illegals from growing, I'll be happy. We can prevent amnesty when the bill comes back on the table, just like last time.

But I think I can vote for him if it'll keep the government out of my pocketbook.

How many supreme court justices are getting ready to retire? Do you really want another Ruth Bader-Ginsberg?

Let's all sing kumbaya and realize that even a president listens to his constituents when they are loud enough. McCain is willing to go the right direction, we just need to prod him at the right times.

Remember, pundits do change their minds, Rush supported Bush in 2000, now he's ripping him apart. If McCain realizes he needs the entire party to win and shows he's earnest, he can gain talk radio support again and by extent more republican support.

Mitt romney ur real sissy girl

To "go believe":
Could Obama do the same for the sake of his party? Or Reps may keep running White House for next four years…

Could Hillary do the same for the sake of the party she loves so much?

He did the right thing. Too bad we lose the only honorable candidate. Say what you will but his life reflects the kind of personal and professional success and stability that most of us strive for. Also, shame on all you religious bigots!!!

This lifelong republican will need a personal phone call from McCain before I give him my vote. His only chance is to select a true conservative otherwise he can for the most part be grouped in with the dems and then it starts looking like Obama time…Oh, and if he selects huck (poser bigot) then it's definately Obama time.

"…Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them who despitefully use you and persecute you."

You gotta love it!!! For every ultra-conservative that McCain changes positions to convince he actually is a conservative, he loses 4 independents and moderate Republicans. Keep it up, Rush, Laura, and Ann–it shouldn't take all summer for the Republican party to become a pathetic minority 3d party, after Independents and Democrats.

Well, look at the bright side Mitt. You'll have plenty of time to catch up with Big Love on HBO! You may even be able to take on another wife or better yet run for king profit of your cult!

Don't go away mad Mitt, just GO AWAY!

Why doesn't Hillary do the same and just leave forever???

Iraq and the Economy are #1 for Americans!

Hillary voted for the war in Iraq

Hillary donated 5 million of her own money to save her campaign.

Sounds to me that she isnt capable of managing her own finances and most certainly doesnt know foreign policy.

How is she going to run America again?

Too bad Huckabee didn't do the honorable thing for our country back in January. Don't go far, Mitt, our country needs you.

and hey, BUSHIE SMALLS … check out your facts before you make statements like that!! Check the news as of Monday, February 4th and next time know a little more about what you pretend to know!!!

AM MN …… your comment says more about yourself than it does of Mitt Romney!!

In Romney's speech: Fearmongering, blaming Democrats for future terrorist attacks, and negative portrayals of France. This loser needs to get some material thats not at least 3 years old!

He dropped out for the sake of his "wallet" more than his party - the venture capitalist knows when to cut his losses.

I think the conservative commentators are ironically doing much more to get Hillary or Barrack elected as president than any of their supporters have.

I'm an independent and am glad he's gone - his stupid speech shows that he would have been another PR disaster for the country. Of course that's not what conservatives believe because "FoxNews" did not say so.

In case you haven't realized, McCain would have a better chance of facing either of the Democrat candidates than Roney ever did.

The Republicans are not so lustful of gaining power that they can gracefully accede to one of their own! Hillary would do almost anything to gain the power she thinks she is anointed to get!

Here we go again! Just because we don't believe as you believe, we're going to cause attacks on the US. You have got to be kidding. This is the nonsense that the news media was flooding us with when GWB invaded in the first place and ended by making us more unsafe. Does anyone believe this nonsense anymore? Doesn't Hillary impress you as being incredibly capable of making the US a strong leader in the UNION of nations again?

Mitt did this to unite the GOP. He was never in this for himself. He ran because he sincerely wanted to serve his country. He loves America, he wants America to be strong for generations to come. He gets to keep his delegates , his delegates stay his to give to whom he thinks is best to put forth the true principles of the Republican party. That is what a suspension means. Listen carefully to what this means, He is not dropping out it ,is a suspension. There is a difference. We have not heard the last of Mitt Romney. He is an outstanding American

When I read this, I'm freaking out just thinking some people agree with that repugant person.

I am just sick. For the first time in my lifetime, I will not vote. I just can't bring myself to vote "against" Clinton or Obama and I can never vote for a Republican that is at least as liberal as Clinton and maybe more so. I realize that by not voting, I am voting for the Democratic nominee but I think it is morally wrong to vote against a candidate instead of for one. There is absolutely no one among the current political leadership that is fit to run our country. I just hope we actually have a country that looks even slightly like the United States of the past 230 years by the election in 2012.

fmf,
For the most part I agree with you. I think there is less of a "true Democrat" mindset in the Democratic party, but I have to bring this up. What about Joe Lieberman, who agreed with the Democrats on everything but Iraq and was defeated in the primary?

You know how we always wonder why the smart, successful, get it done executive guys don't ever run for public office? How you wonder if the people running are the best and the brightest?

You eventually figure out that most of our elected officials are pretty ordinary, even less than ordinary, and perhaps wholly about their own political career rather than about doing the people's business. And then the pervasive cyncism overwhelms you.

We had a chance to get one of the best and brightest. We had a chance to elect a proven problem solving executive. We had a chance to elect someone who can communicate. We had a chance to elect someone that doesn't need the office. We had a chance to get something done for a change.

Romney is the best and the brightest. He is the first real executive that has a history of getting things done since, well, since who can remember when? What Washington has needed for many, many, many years. Romney is and was the real thing.

We blew it. Now we need to cynically line up behind a decent, somewhat volatile, a little bit liberal, a little bit conservative, old career veteran bulldog politician with no real executive experience named John McCain. We need to hope he keeps to his words that he stands behind his conservative rhetoric rather than his less than conservative record. One who makes you wonder, where are the smart, really successful sharp candidates? One the makes you wonder "Is this the best we have to offer?"

Gee, Mitt gave up before the battle even began.

Rush and the other armchair patriots didn't help much, did they?

Hey Bobby;
Tell that to Margaret Thatcher and Madelaine Albright! Go back under your rock now and be a good boy.

Thanks Mitt you showed you are a true gentleman today. Please help and suport John McCain now and help him get elected our next President. America needs him.

"surrender to terror"? are people really so stupid as to buy into that fascist fear-tactic gimmick?

"surrender to terror?"

Wow, up until now I thought he was just a little chump. Now I see he's a REALLY BIG chump. Goodbye and good riddance. Don't let the door hit you on your way out, Mitt.

Smart decision to quit. No point beating each other up and exposing your party's weakness to the "YES WE CAN".

I am a registered independent leaning more towards GOP. It doesnt matter who drops out now or later. One thing is for sure, if my two choices came down to:

McCain & Clinton, I am voting Clinton

McCain & Obama, I'm voting Obama

Huckabee & Clinton, I'm voting Huckabee

Huckabee & Obama, I'm voting Huckabee

I'm voting what makes sense to me as a person. McCain is a great guy, I just don't connect with him in any way. The last debate definitely confirmed that, as he appeared

Voted Huck last tuesday, because I'm not impressed with Mitt's record in my home state, and I will not let talk show hosts like Jay Severin shove a candidate down my throat just because they think he's the right guy. Just my two cents!

He put his loyalty to his political party above his own personal code of ethics.

All I want to know is…..what is James Dobson and the other "evangelical stalwarts" going to do now. The idea of voting for a person that has flipped on every linchpin conservative issue as opposed to supporting someone like Mike Huckabee from the beginning is crazy.

Christians should stand on principle, not vote "the party".

fmf, you said "the Dem party doesn't have the forces tearing it apart from the inside. They are content with their diversity ". HA HA HA! Wasn't it just two weeks ago Hill and Obama were hating on each other over race? They only pretend kiss and made up for the super Tuesday race. You can bet it will start up again as soon as they run into each other.

The speech was beautiful and it made me proud to be an American.

I strongly erge any of you who have not yet voted in your states primaries to consider Huckabee for your vote. The confidence he displayed on tuesday was phenominal. He is the only Rep with any momentum. McCains boring and tame speech was cut short by a raging Obama who said the Republicans believed in OLD politics and that we were the party of the past. This is a mountain we are up against and we all must believe in our leader. I believe in Mike Huckabee.

Bottom line…Mitt is the only candidate here who really didn't need this position. take all the "attacks out", all the negative media spin out….(I'm sick of the "he spent more money", someone needs to ask why media is so favorable & gives 100's of thousands in free press to other candidates as well…), this is a man that turns things around, this is a man who works extremely hard and he turns out to be very smart. I feel that Romney looks at the U.S. right now as a major project to fix and I really think he had a great shot to make some serious changes. Ultimately we need someone who can really better America, I think he really, really wanted to and could. Maybe next term.

I hate McCain, I really do, his blatent lies right to America's face are largely ignored by the media. Two days ago he still claims Romney had a timetable for withdrawl set out…hmmm. At the same time, Romney is right, I am sure he hates to see McCain go on like this, but he is very well equiped to handle a major situation abroad and we need continued support in that area. He is doing this for the good of America.

We saw today in Governor Romney's departure from the GOP primary race just what a powerful motivator love of country over self can be! He chose unity of the Republican Party without abandoning conservative principles, indeed he has become the rightful embodiment of the conservative movement. He went out in '08 as a the ROCKSTAR of CPAC and will be continue to champion conservative values and economic, military, and moral strength! I wish him and his great family well and sincerely hope to see their return to the national stage in the future!

Actually Alice, you are nearly right. Except that it was Bush pretending to be pres, not a man. Romney was saying the right things, as he thought on any given day. But he must have counted the numbers. Numbers of his own $$ not votes. He realized he could never be able to recoup that many millions spent from his own pocket.

And the true Republicans can be thankful both that he is gone and that Ron Paul is a step closer.

But no one honestly asking to become pres can continue the big lie. We have to stop the borrow and spend/give away trillions of $$ with nothing to show the next generation for their debt. Romney did not have guts to admit it but the next pres will have to raise taxes just as George H W Bush did. So let's be honest after 7 years of lies, just for the change.

(Sarcastic) By the way. Romney did so badly in "taxachussets" that they decidedly voted to win the presidential bid.

Also, Romney's suspension is not like a suspension on the democratic side. He dosen't keep his delegates. On the Republican side, decisions on how to allocate delegates is left to the state parties.

Thanks again Romney. Most of the conservitive voters out there either believed that you were the real deal, or wanted to!

North Carolina hasn't even had the chance to vote yet, along with many other states, and now we don't even get a chance to vote for who we want because so many of them are quitting their campaigns…. This is SOOOOOO incredibly unfair. I'm sure Utah would have liked to have a chance to vote for Romney since they are mostly Mormon there, but it won't happen now. I thought this was America…. and a democracy…. and it looks to me like the definition is literally being re-written…. I am very angry about this. Other states are deciding FOR ME who I WANT, instead of the other way around. What a crock…

NO SHAME!! Just quit and go away with your head up high but NOOOOO Spread more LIES!!!!

You War Mongers SHOCK the hell out of me. This war has done NOTHING but Kill people for no reason and make Bushs friends even RICHER!!! Why do you think they want it to go on??

Good for the republicans. The sooner they get a single leadership campaign the better.

Romney would have made the best President!!! He would not have quit if he did not care about the American people, he is far to competitive, and hates to lose. People should grow up and stop the name calling, and the personal attacks on Romney and his church. It is intresting to me because I know that his church is the first to respond to many natural disasters and people in aid . Sounds like some good people to me.

I'm still confused as why Mitt would even run for Pres. in the first place. His name got dragged through the mud and he's out $35 mil. Big mistake for a savy businessman. He should have take his money and bought an island somewhere and retired. Just goes to show that bigots and liberals posing as republicans have a better chance at a presidency. Only in America…

Melissa,

Check your own religious bias at the door. Raising $250M in fees from paying companies is not a tax. I don't know what the huckster has sold you and the south on, but it is not reality. If conservative means a specific evangical club of religions, then Huck can have them and their 1/3 of the south. I'm a mormon, who works for a catholic organization. Good christians are good christians. They don't belittle or call satan the people that worship christ differently. The South seems to have exchanged it bigotry of race for the religious kind.

I hope that is not true, but it doesn't look great with Huckster for a mouthpiece.

Mitt finally shows his true colors.
He find he couldn't buy power so he's quitting the game and going home.
A man who stood for nothing in particular finds that the voters got wise to him.
Even those who don't like McCain or Huckabee know what those two actually believe.
Romney is a man of no principles, no core beliefs, only a belief in buying power and control.
Goodbye and good riddance!

Will miss you in the race, Mitt. While I didn't agree with all your positions — I admire your experience and I truly feel you would have made a difference to our nation had you been elected President. Good luck John McCain — despite the naysayers — you are truly a conservative who knows how and when to compromise to get things done for the good of the country.

I hope that everyone could find out that the best answer for the world`s problems is Sen.Clinton. We pray for her in Middle East. Sorry! but Obama is like Ahmadijejad in Iran. His Motto : We can is exactly like Ahmadinejad`s. He used to say : "we can" too. Hillary for 08.

To Mark in Ontario, don't talk about dishonoring those who have served and died in Iraq, unless you have served this country yourself.

As a Marine, I am still unsure of how I will vote, but I'm certain of one thing.. I'm sick of those who know nothing, pretending to know everything. The 'war on terror' is not just the war on one specific terrorist group.. thats what some liberal idiots seem to forget.

We haven't been attacked since 2001.. coincidence? Believe whatever you want to believe.

I'm glad Mitt went out in style without bitter remarks and all. Now if only the Huckabee figures out that he can't win and drops out. We need to unite if we wanna beat the Democrats in November.

I'm glad that Mitt decided to go out in style, without bitter remarks and all. No if only Huckabee can realize he doesn't stand a chance.

I like to stick to facts and not get personal but in this case—–what an IDIOT!!!Good riddance to ya, can't even say it's been fun!

You guys sound like a bunch of idiots. Whether McCain, Hillary or Obama are the next ones to make things worse doesn't really matter. Is it really viable or courageous to keep going when the REALITY is that we DO have a TWO party system? He wouldn't be able to get the nomination so he should keep fighting and lessen the chance for the party to have A