CNN

“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 ANY chance to have some representation in Washington? This criticism is ridiculous. It would be awesome if this year would spark a TRUE change to the two-party politics in this country, but given what we have, Romney going with the party is the admiral way to go– not the other way around.

Romney would be criticized whether he got out or stayed in. He is smart enough to look at the whole picture and do what is best for everyone. He truly WAS the best conservative candidate and best to fix this country but the STUPID voters who don't dig any deeper than the soundbites let him go!

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.

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.

Maybe Romney realized that the American people were beginning to see how he really was...a socially liberal governor from a liberal state who decided he could make people think he was a social conservative. I can not believe that so many drank the kool-aid and supported him that way. I was more annoyed that he was in there due to the fact he could not be who he really is. There is nothing wrong with being a liberal, unless you want to run for President on the GOP ticket. Then it is not allowed. At least according to Conservatives.

Even the right wing does not like a turncoat. His campaign will not be missed.

Applauds Annie and Alice! Great comments, ladies. Agreed.

About time their Mitt! Now you won't need as much hairspray.

Quitter!

"I vote the party, not the person"....

Do you understand what he meant? He is choosing the better of the whole over what he might personally want. He is choosing benefiting the party over benefiting himself. We just saw a selfless politician step down, because his priority is this nation. I wish more people would think about how what they do is affecting the country. We might actually begin to be better off.

The term "True Republican" gets me every time. Does anyone know what that is anymore? There are so many people to hate and so little time. So much fear to sow and so little time. The platform isn't built on how to proceed forward, but on how to point fingers, instead of coming up with a solution that includes all of America. Romney's speech is proof of that. The party's intolerance is what will continue to keep the party down. That's the thing with intolerance, it doesn't have boundaries. You get so wound up trying to make everyone like yourself that it become self-destructive when any other opinion is shared. The Democratic party doesn't have these forces tearing it apart from the inside. They are content with their diversity. They are focused and that's why they have two viable candidates. If Clinton and Obama joined forces, does anyone seriously think a Republican could beat them? Of course, individual ego would prevent them from running as a team. Do you think Obama wants VP at this point? No way. Nor would Clinton want to offer it. But if they could come to an agreement, it would solidify that party beyond belief.

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.

I am a liberal and must say that Romney ran a great campaign. I may not have ever voted for him but at least I was open minded enough to at least listen to his positions.

Melissa you're wrong. When a republican candidate suspends their campaign the states decide where to allocate their delegates. The candidate does not retain them.

The democrats retain their delegates. The republicans do not.

It is really too bad that people have to bring religion into this. Just to inform one of the people who commented the Mormon Church already has a prophet to replace Gordan B. Hinckley. That is Thomas S. Monson and that announcement was made on Monday. This shows me how uninformed people are.

Mitt, I am sad to see you go. You have convinced me that you changed your views (on abortion/stem cell research), for the right reasons. I am glad to know that there are those in the world that are just stuck to one ideal, but that can change, when they learn more about issues. You're open mindedness, and now your sacrifice of something that you want, for what you belive to be the greater good speaks highly of you.

I hope to see you in this race again, in a couple of years. In the meantime, although I don't agree with everything that McCain has done in his past. I hope that he can convince me he is the best choice to:
#1 – Get the Economy back on track
#2 – Secure our boarders
#3 – Push forward in Iraq and finish the job well, so that we can bring our men/women home soon. (I know that he feels like we need to finish the job and make sure that the country isn't left to ruin and doesn't sprout even more extremists with means to cause more terror – and I agree with him there).
#4 – Make our presence strong wherever there are those that would threaten the lives of Americans or our Allys and friends across the world.

The alternative to McCain, is just too unbareable to think about =
Clinton – YIKES!!!
or
Obama – Good man, don't agree with MOST of his stances on these major issues.

Mitt,

You would have made an inspiring and effective President. Best of luck to you and let's try again in four years.

Signed disillusioned,

Moderate Republican

Just wait a few days...he'll probably change his position and become an active candidate again. Oh, and since he is no longer a candidate, he'll now probably resign from the NRA.

ROMNEY SUPPORTERS : your man fought hard but he felt like he couldn't win against the Dems.
Please support Ron Paul, who is the only Republican who can beat the Dems.

I hope we can all forsee the future it a small way; should Sen. McCain be elected to represent his party he will appeal to his more conservative bretheren by changing his message and perspective to appeal to their palates. Should that happen will the Straight Talk Express and the integrity of a strong man be compromised? If so, do we want a man such as that to be in Command? If Sen. McCain does retain his intergrity, in the face of unbelieveing conservatives, then perhaps he will do himself the greatest favor and perhaps overcome the odds of voters against him on the way to the white house. If he cannot generate enough numbers, he still will have retained his integrity which I believe is essential to an honest and great representitive.

Obama for Change in 2008!

Mitt Romney might have flip flopped on issues, but still had more credibility than McCain and no I don't want Huckabust to be president. Ron Paul2008!

Contentbelle: Actually – Romney is the spoiler. He did not win one southern state. You can't get to the White House without winning the south.

Without Romney in – Huckabee would have soundly defeated McCain in S.C., Oklahoma and Missouri.

I think it is safe to say 70% or more of Romney voters will go for Huckabee over McCain.

Glad to see that Romeny spent 35 mill of his own coin- good for him. After it became apparent from his latest comment about "surrendering to terrorists", I for one am GLAD he's off the list. That statement's got Karl Rove written all over it. As if a trillion more of our dollars and thousands more of our dead in Iraq will make it safer. Give me a break. Absolutely unbelievable.

"I vote the party; not the person." Since when was THAT "herd mentality" something to be proud of? THINK for yourselves, Americans. Study the issues. Maybe this is what separates us "independents" from Republicans and Democrats. We vote for the person, not a political machine.

When Andrew Trout said he votes the party and not the person he is actually saying much more than what some of the posters here are giving him credit for. The republican party is pro-life. None of the democratic candidates are pro-life. republicans are strong on national security. Democrats want to cut and run.

Those are just two of the key values conservatives hold dear. The democrats could care less about these values.

Hillary makes statements that she wants abortions to be rare but her voting record says something very different. She supports federally funded abortions, voted no to require parental notification of minors seeking out of state abortions.

And conservatives would actually vote for this type of person for President? Yeah right. When pigs fly.

Mitt had a lot of issues, such as his flip flopping, but in the end I chose him as the best candidate to run this country. Now I'm stuck with McCain only because he represents my party values. Maybe McCain will stab Huckabee in the back and pick Romney as his running mate.

The real reason for opting out is that he already burnt $35 million of his cash and probably his missus threatened to quit on him !

Seriously, he did right by cutting his 'losses' and blaming the democrats instead. After all, even if he wins, who knows if there will be any cash left in the treasury to loot ?

To quote Howard Dean, "Ye, haw!!!"

Cathy: Why are you so scared of Huckabee?

And any Republican calling Gov. Huckabee a liberal is silly and just a "soundbite" from someone who does not his record. He won hands down in Arkansas in the primary. They must still love him AFTER electing him 3 times to state office.

I will vote for McCain over Obama or Clinton. But I think we still have a shot with someone more conservative in Huckabee. McCain is no where near getting enough delegates yet.

The only reason he's suspending the campaign is so he does not have to conceed delegates to the other candidates, so he is still a candidate- not a drop out. I am waiting for him to hurry up and drop out since he cares so much about the party instead of himself. With all the trash he's talked about Huckabee I don't see him giving any endorsement or delegates. He also rants that MCCain isn't a conservative, so he will look like a REAL sell out if he endorses McCain for a vp post. Then again, he's NEVER even acknowledged Ron Paul even exists so I don't know how that can happen. Since he didn't win any of the "conservative south" on Tuesday he may be getting the hint: we know you have never been a conservative-we've seen your record in Taxachussetts!

Bobby writes:

"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"'

______________________________________________________________

Let me get this straight, Bobby. We should not vote for Hillary because the TERRORISTS won't like it??????????????????????? HUH????????

They'll shout "Death to America?" Where have you been? Under a rock? They've been shouting that for years anyway.

9/11 happened when a man was President.

Sheesh!!!!!

HILLARY IN 08 and 12!!!!!!!!!!

It stinks but it makes sense. For McCain to win either Obama or Hillary, he needs to roll up his sleeves sooner than later. McCain's stance on Iraq is virtually his ONLY difference between the dems. The November election is going to come down to whether voters want to pull out of Iraq no matter what or stay until we can ensure some type of success and secure ally in the fight against terror. I agree with Romney that we have to stay in Iraq until we have met the benchmarks for success and Hillary and Obama don't think so.

AMERICAN voters really MISSED out this time around. Mitt was hands down the BEST candidate to revamp immigration, the economy, social security– all of it. He is the only one that has DONE the things they're all talking about doing. Whether is was media bias, bigotry– whatever. People weren't ready for Mitt to lead, but I bet in a few years when NO ONE has been able to deliver STILL– he will be there ready to pick up the pieces again.

He didn't have the delegates, and he didn't want to spend any more money, but I RESENT the media not acknowledging him swallowing his pride and that he IS backing out for the good of the country– NOT just these things.

I appreciate him going through what he has and getting this far. It's depressing to me that the people in this country are STILL ignorant enough to not be ready to elect a Mormon President. His religion has NOTHING to do with his skills and ability to do the job– other than influence him to be a moral person. He can believe in his religion and live and let live unlike ALL those evangelicals out there who HATE Mormons. By their fruits... The LDS church doesn't hold meetings about how to fight off the baptists. They are some of the most Christian-like people around and shame on any of you Christians arrogantly thinking you are better than them because they have different religious beliefs. Huckabee who wants to shove the bible down people's throats rather than let the constitution be the rule in this land scares me. He couldn't lead over those who believe other than he does, he has no tolerance for non-religious people. This is a land of religious freedom– members of the LDS church understand that and appreciate it, apparently Mitt Romney overestimated people's abillity to not be prejudice in choosing a secular leader– hugely disappointing.

The Republicans need to seriously think about their VOTE. I don't know if I can bring myself to vote for McCain, I HATE the man– but we have to do what is best for the country and have the guts to do whatever it takes– like Mitt. Obama sounds great to everyone– but he is the MOST liberal senator and his Economics plan will RUIN us!! Please research it all and lets make good decisions this fall!! God HELP America!

Mitt Romney did the gracefull thing, his supporters however, need to learn a few manners.

I'm constantly amazed that *some* Republicans think you must be a Conservative, anti-choice Bible thumper to join the GOP. Guess what – there are a lot of us who are Moderate and still managed to register as Republicans. The Right Wingers may choose to be a "Conservative first and a Republican second", but for Moderates, we're Americans first and Republicans second.

No offense, but I think we've had enough of a wild ride over the past seven years...and it's because we all have motion sickness that McCain is the man for the Republican party. I have to say, I have never been so proud! It's proof that our system works. We do not yield to far right extremists who live and breathe the party line and force their faux-morality on the rest of us. I am happy to sit back and watch the far-right squirm as our country moves in the right-nay, correct-direction.

We Huck supporters can say the same about Romney, Contentbelle. If he would have left earlier, then Huck would be the frontrunner. Trying to destroy Huck's chances because Romney couldn't stand to spend any more of his own money is not Huckabee's fault. They both had the same chances to win support, but Romney spent TENS OF MILLIONS more than Huck, and still didn't get any more support then he did. I didn't agree with Romney on most things, but he was a honorable man, and I would definitly have voted for him over McCain if Huck wan't in the race. McCain is a Dem in Rep clothing. So please, Huck has not slammed on anyone else, not even Romney, so please refrain from slamming on him until you know everything about him.

Contentbelle- that was the most incomprehensible thing I have ever read. We've had a republican in the white house for eight years now and all it has lead to are wars, recession, higher taxes (for those of us that don't make millions a year), and a debt so high it will take decades before we see another surplus. By my estimation it would be difficult to screw things up more than they already are, so we might as well give the democrats another shot at the White House and see what they can do with it, even thought there is no guarantee that McCain won't win it come November.

First of all folks, get it right. We are not "in time of war". Congress never declared war. They simply gave the President authority. This was wrong and unconstitutional.

Second, we will never get rid of all the terrorists. It's impossible to do seeing how our actions in the region are creating more terrorists by the day. Military force is not always the answer. Since we can't destroy, we must control and that can and should be done through diplomatic means not the sacrifice of more of our men and women.

This kind of talk from a candidate is the worst kind of pandering. Does anyone honestly believe that Obama or Hillary wants to declare "surrender"?

It's funny how the war-hawks will never really explain what victory is, but anyone that disagrees with them is in favor of "surrender".

This is insanity and I'm glad there is one less wealthy scum bag in the race.

CO said: "Any moron who says "I vote the party, not the person" should have their voter registration revoked and told to come back when they have some common sense."

Firstly, LOL.

Secondly, he probably just ran out of his fun/campaign money. What was it $35 mil? It wasn't fun spending anymore when going got tough..

Clinton 08!

“I vote the party, not the person.”

That statement shows just how pathetic the vast majority of members of both the Republican and Democratic Parties are.

Holy Huckabee! This is great news! Now those who complain that McCain is too liberal can get behind Mike Huckabee as the true Conservative candidate! Go Huckabee!

News flash for Contentbelle.....Do you seriously think a conservative born-again "James Dobson" evangelical Baptist would EVER, EVER vote for Romney???

Now, maybe Romney can find a career in selling used cars.

I don't want to add to all the anger and animosity already posted here. I will just say this is a sad day for America. Two days after the Dow fell 370 points and economists announced that we officially are in a recession, the only candidate who has the knowledge, skill set and experience to turn things around and restore our country to economic greatness drops out of the race.

Mitt is a brilliant individual, a gentleman, an outstanding family man and someone who was active in his church. We were fortunate to have him in the race. Mitt achieved at the highest levels at everything he set his mind to. He is a man of singular gifts, and I've no doubt he would have been one of our greatest presidents. Thank you, Mitt, for the sacrifice you and your family made out of your love for our country.

I am a lifelong Republican, and my next comment is directed to the established GOP order, which championed McCain. I want you to know I am now supporting Barack Obama. Our party is going to lose in November, and it's a defeat we well deserve. It's almost as though you couldn't run Bush for a third term, so you chose the next closest thing.

For those who wonder why I, a lifelong Republican, now favor Barack, it's this. I love his message of uniting America. Barack is an intelligent, thoughtful individual who has shown remarkable judgment in this race. I'm particularly impressed by the respect he shows to those with whom he disagrees. He has behaved far more admirably in this race than McCain or Hillary.

Good luck, Barack, and stick to your message of bringing us together. You might have friends in places where you would least expect.

McCain & Huckabee double teamed Mitt. Watch McCain pick Huckabee for his VP, that's what they had planned all along.

the war in iraq had nothing to do with the war on terror. Bush was just helping his saudi pals get rid of one of their enemies.

clinton will contiuned this war in iraq barack will end it.

Boy, do I hope McCain wins the republican nomination. I am a democrat and I do not think he has a chance to win the general election. Many conservatives who I know say that they will not vote if he is nominated. Also, can you imagine the debates between Obama (who I think will win the nomination for the dems), a youthful, inspiring, and extremely articulate senator, and McCain, an old man who does not have half the charisma of Obama. A lot of the independents that McCain is going to be courting to win the general election will not stand with him for those reasons.

McCain cannot gather the support of his own party — how is he supposed to unite a nation?

I was hoping he would spend all his money and still lose.

So long mr corporaton!

I am glad Romney stepped aside, because he was trying to be President for the wrong reasons. For Power and the money he has become accostomed to. Whoever asked him to step back, good for them. But MCCain is not the leader this country needs either. I think maybe we should vote for someone who does not spout Retoric. Also has everyone forgotten both parties got us into Iraq, Both parties have brought us to the edge of economic disaster and both parties have done nothing but trampled on the constitution and our bill of rights as it pleases them and their many, many lobbies. Please investigate your candidate, Read over their voting record read old news on them. Please make an educated choice before you, I mean you, each individual out there, destroys this country from stupidity. This is not a beauty contest, it is not the winner of Americna Idol, this is the person who will decide the fate of our Country, they will conduct foreign policy and veto laws. THINK before you VOTE

the romey you diehards love so much ran away from those values in his losing capaign v ted – no loss

R.I.P sucker.

I love American and only want what is best for us. Who knows what that is? I wish that all Amicans could come together as one nation, not split between the Dem and Repubs. Most of the comments on this site are insane. Good luck to you Mitt.

"I vote the party, not the person" is everything that is wrong with politics in this country! Unintelligent, uninformed, sheep-like voters who place a vote simply because someone has an "R" or a "D" behind his or her name makes me sick. I'd rather they not vote at all. To think that it is likely that the person who said that will vote for McCain, not because he thinks his ideas and ideals are optimal for being president, but because the Republican National Committe said to do so, is mind boggling. Doesn't anyone think for themselves anymore? Political parties are robbing this nation of true greatness. No one wants to stand up and say I'll vote for this person not because he is a Republican or she is a Democrat but because I believe in what he or she is saying and I believe he or she can truly put America back on the track to being a world power and a nation other nations look up to. This is why when you listen to the ridiculous "debates" on television, the candidates just argue back and forth without actually telling the American people what they are about and what they stand for. I know more from McCain about Romney's flip flopping than I do about McCain's plan for our economy. I know more about Clinton's quote about Regan from Obama than I do about Obama's plan for ending the war in Iraq. Personally, I wish they'd all drop out of the race and we could start from scratch with non-career politicians who aren't controlled by lobbyists running their campaigns and big money donors. That would truly be refreshing.

I am a Ron Paul supporter but I have to honestly say I liked Romney compared to McCain & Huckabee, who are Republicans by name only. I am fearful that one these 2 will get the nomination and destroy the GOP as we know it. I would urge all Romney supports to look into and hopefully support Dr. Paul. He is actually the most conservative candidate of all and the man most fit to lead this once great nation. Lets band together for Ron Paul and save us all from a Clinton/McCain November!!!!

Paul 08

Hey, he was spending a lot of his own money on this – can you blame him?

At least he didn't try the "loan" nonesense somebody else did...

Hillary – take a cue from Mitt – quit now!

I vote the party, not the person? Way to be an independent thinker and make an informed decision.

Romney supporter: "But ultimately “I vote the party, not the person.”

And herein is the low-level thinking that has sustained the Republican party while damaging the country. Party first, country second.

The Gop sell out........ wow how interesting is that now we have the election all FIXED up .

RON PAUL 2008 Ron Paul.com ......... check him out if you want a future free of sale out politicians

I am a Libertarian. I have no love for either of the two parties that have made the idea of independent thought seem radical to the vast majority Americans. Too many are happy to parrot the sound bites and forgo the arduous task of forming an objective, fact based opinion of their own. An honorable man who served his country valiantly is being besmirched by people with less than honorable records of their own. At least his decisions will be based on experience in battle. Who else among the candidates could have said that. I have a feeling most of the hawks we hear are in fact chicken hawks who don't know how it feels to have a gun against your head. I do. McCain does. I will vote Libertarian until I die or the reincarnation of Goldwater, whichever comes first. Voting my conscience makes a soft pillow. However, I will not participate in the denigration of John McCain, and I have no respect for those who do.

I really don't care whether Romney quits or not, but after watching his speech, one thing really bothers me. How dare a man (or woman) who can spend 35 million dollars of their own money, have the nerve to talk about dependence on our government for help. Boy, I wish I had 35 million dollars to throw away. Romney and Bush, and most of our rich politicans who have great health care (funded by the government, of course) don't have a clue what it is like to struggle every day, living from paycheck to paycheck, while our government throws away our money in a war that will never end. Perhaps, if we had that money, our roads and bridges. and country would not be crumbling. Romney is the ultimate in hypocrisy.

I Think Reverend Huckabee Should Prepare his Speech as Well.

It's sooo Obvious.

.. OBAMA '08

.. OBAMA '08

.. OBAMA '08

.. OBAMA '08

"Quitting so the wars can go on unabated.

One more war monger out of the way.

Go Clinton and Obama!

I will vote for whoever is on the ballot with a "D" by their name."
SUKIE

Hey, here's another person who votes for a party and not the individual!! Where are all of the USSR, NAZI, and "That's what's wrong with this country" comments? Oh, I forgot, this one's voting for a Democrat so I guess it's ok now.

Wow, one great old time for the people-bashers for the sake of bashing!
What will they say when Hillary or Obama will have to make a concession speech some day.
It was a great speech Romney made. You get to know what he stands for better than from any of the debates. For his love of the country, and his hope in its people, It feels good to be an American.

“I vote the party, not the person.” Yet another pearl of wisdom from yet another clueless republican. I wonder what you were like before your brain turned to mush from listening to rush?

"Don't go anywhere Mr. Romney; American Needs You more than ever! It is sad: The price tag for President of the United States has gone up so high; based on the created image; standard bell curve of Publicity: Rather than Integrity and Platform to get elected. "

Well said Contentbelle...well said!

Great....now we have the Democratic Republican McCain and the Religious schmuck Huckabee. There goes any chance a Republican will make into office. Romney was the best canidate out of the group and I am sad to see him leave the race.

Well I am surprised! I am a Democrat, but, if my choice of candidate didn't make it I would have voted for Romney. I'm just not a fan of Mc Cain and never was, he is not my choice. Romney would have made a very good looking President. So now that he has bowed out, come on Hucklebee!
And it is sad that politics has become so much about money and who endorses who. I wish this process could be changed. I don't like it because some states have caucuses and some states have primiaries. Why can't it all be done the same? Why can't it be done the same day? Why not put a cap on how much each candidate can spend? They are trying to buy their way in it seems.

Levi Patterson ~ I'm a Democrat so please, go ahead and waste your vote on Romney.

However, you say we should be in Iraq because Iraqis died under Saddam? What about all the AMERICANS that died on 9-11 and the fact that the one responsible is still thumbing his nose at us?

You and all the holier-than-thou Republicans like you are the reason an idiot is still in the WH and why we're in the mess we're in. Thank God most Americans won't be fooled again.

I was just getting to know you, Mitt Romney, and I was coming to appreciate your intelligence and capabilities for being the person that could economically change our country. I am so sorry and sad that you are leaving the race. There are just too many people not paying attention to the candidates at this time and who haven't made an informed decision yet.

Mitt Romney not only showed outstanding leadership, but also great courage in putting his country and the war on terror ahead of all other considerations. If John McCain cares as much about his country as Mitt Romney does, he will make his peace with Romney, perhaps by apologizing for some of the totally inaccurate accusations he made about Mitt Romney's statements about Iraq. .

was just getting to know you, Mitt Romney, and I was coming to appreciate your intelligence and capabilities for being the person that could economically change our country. I am so sorry and sad that you are leaving the race. There are just too many people not paying attention to the candidates at this time and who haven't made an informed decision yet.

BOBBY???
"""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."""""

.........

I'm not a Clinton supporter and i think your comment suggest that you belong in a circus, you clown! Do us all AMERICANS a favor and go put you head in a hole somewhere!

Damian.

This year's presidential campaign continues to astonish me. I figured Huckabee would leave the race before Romney. I guess it's a good thing I'm not a pundit! Of course, I'm still thinking that McCain will get the nomination, and he will choose Joe Lieberman as his running mate. So, what do I know?

As a practicing Mormon, I want to emphasize that Romney's politics of fear, war, attack ads, and blind allegiance to party certainly do NOT represent all adherents to our faith. I am part of a group (perhaps small, but growing daily) who are ready to say, Go Obama!

I am so sick and tired of the right wingers equating electing a Democrat with appeasing the terrorists! This coming from someone who supported and still supports attacking the wrong country. Here is yet more of this sickening divisive fear mongering from the GOP that has kept them in the White House for the past eight years. If this kind of rhetorical garbage isn't proof that the Republicans have to go in 2008, I don't know what is. Good riddance, Romney! Don't let the door hit you on the rear end on the way out!

Contentbelle,
If people don't vote for you, you're not a front runner.
People didn't vote for Romney.
Your people voted for McCain.
Romney realized it was impossible for him to win.
So, he cut and run. Not because of his love for America,
but for the love of the remaining dollars in his checkbook and common sense.

Contentbelle:

Mitt Romney a conservative? Please!! Have you seen his "position videos" on YouTube from just a few years ago? Unreal!!

It's difficult to convince the conservative base that your an authentic conservative when you've only reached your political puberty at the age of 60!!

I weep for our Nation today! Mitt Romney is truly the man we need in our White House. Surely, every intelligent conservative can see that.

UTTERLY RIDICULOUS

To spin his wasted millions in support of his campaign, his utter defeat by both McCain AND Huckabee, and abysmal failure to connect with the voters of the GOP to be about Obama and Clinton and their desire to end the war in Iraq is utterly ridiculous.

He was talking several minutes before I knew what he was talking about. At the very minimum, I thought that Mitt would bow out with some bastion of integrity and decorum.

This guy is a real work of art.

As proven by these stupid posts, CNN is full of a bunch of idiotic democrats. Good luck to you all and the future of our country. Go ahead and keep applauding the higher tax rate. Stupid.

You guys are funny...

YES WE CAN

It's now inevitable that Mike Huckabee will win the nomination. If Romney would've done this earlier Huck would've had the clear advantage after Super Tuesday. But since there are few moderate states left and the conservative voters who voted for Romney will now vote for Huckabee Clearly gives the edge and momentum to mike.

I like Mike 08

Another Fear Mongering-- Conservative? Conservatism a bit misplaced I think.

There is no relativity to Romney's statement. Why did 9/11 take place? Because Bush came to office. Well, in hindsight, there may be credibility to that premise.

However, there is none to the theory we have to prolong the Iraq War to ensure there are no futher attacks. WAR BEGETS WAR. Hatred begets More Hatred. And Opression coupled with Brow Beating into Submission Begets Attacks and is synomous with the Bush Regime. And that's why the Iraq War it is still on going. And will continue to flourish under McCain's Leadership.

No the question is not Can Obama do the same for the sake of his party? But can Hillery do the same for the sake of the party.

Go Obama

What's wrong with you all? Mitt wanted to run, you all don't like him. Now he quited, and then you all don't like him. Get real everyone! He's gentleman enough to step aside.

Mitt Romney is NOT the most conservative candidate in the race. That is absolutely, 100% false. Ron Paul is (according to his supporters, himself, and his own VOTING RECORD) the most conservative candidate not only in the presidential race, but also the most conservative member of congress. The writer of the article needs to revise the choice of words immediately or risk being labeled as a liar by many Americans.

To vote the person, not the party, is simply naive. I don't care how wonderful a candidate is, if his team is losing he won't be helpful.

How gracious of Romney to end his run "for the good of the country", but only after it has finally become obvious to even him that he stood no chance of winning.

How can anyone vote for Hillary or Obama when neither have any experience what so ever?! I am not a McCain person either but he at least is QUALIFIED to be president. I guess in the liberal eyes, qualifications mean nothing. Just color and gender.

It is comments from people like those found here that keep the Republican Party alive; so many nasty hearted people.

I'm a Republican that just decided to vote for Obama. I just don't see a leader in McCain and he's practically the same as Obama except for the Iraq War.

You know what's funny? Last I checked, Obama was the delegate leader in the Democratic party.

But I'm all for Hillary doing the same for her party, if you can talk her into it.

It's funny that I see people saying they will vote for Obama over McCain because is too liberal. WHAT!?!?!? Obama is the most liberal Democrat around. Look at his policies and positions instead of his bright smile. Come on folks.....you are smarter than that!

How did he ever expect to win when the base of the republican party are a bunch of religious bigots?

Ahhhh Mitz, gee, I was hoping you would spend ALL of your millions!!!

Truly, this is a great day for America!

Buh Bye!

Now it's time for McCain and Huckabee to step down as well.

He probably backed out to become VP for McCain. Now theres a good combo. I really think they would do well.

What is wrong with Conservatives these days? Isn't it spiteful to say that even Clinton is better choice than McCain for Republicans?

Congratulations Democratic nominee (whoever it ends up being): you've just won the Presidency!!!!

In addition to my comment above, I wish to add that the time is almost right for McCain to do the brilliant thing: offer the vice president slot to Huckabee. I can think of no other substantive thing that would unite conservatives under McCain more than that.

No what do we do? Mccain the war machine? Huck screwed this all up!

Mike Huckabee should NOT concede. If real conservatives get behind him, he can win.

Now maybe Bush will hear this calling, I think he still loves America, and step down so this great country can move on for the American people, rather than funnel tax payer money to his cohorts in the war machine.

As a Republican I congratulate Romney for putting country over politics. The only real issue facing this country is foiling the attempt of the Democratic candidates from surrendering to the terrorists. In the Democratic debates the Iraq issue for Barack and Hillary came down to withdrawing US troops within 30 or 60 days of their taking office. Pathetic!!

I still think we're better off letting Clinton or Obama winning rather then give the mantle to John McCain who will surely ruin the Republican party. After what Bush has done to us, McCain would only make things even worse, perhaps forever destroying the party.

Besides, I'm so disillusioned by Bush right now, we had 8 years of conservative rule and look where it got us. Maybe it is time to try something different. Let the dems try, if they fail we clean up in 2012, if not, well that means they did something right which is good for everyone.

Dear Levi Patterson,
You stated that Saddam killed 150/day. I'll take that at face value. At that rate, over 5 years, he would have killed 273,750.

During the 5 years since we invaded Iraq we have killed many more than that. Estimates up to 1,000,000. It's hard to know for sure in the chaos but it's certainly more than 273k.

And even for those who don't care about Iraqi lives, the lack of focus on Al Qaeda has allowed them to establish a safe haven in Pakistan.

It's clear that invading Iraq was an error. It's not clear to me what the best course is from here, I can see merit both in staying and in leaving. I lean towards leaving, at least that way we are not condemning more soldiers to death, spending $100b+ per year, and inflaming more anti-American hatred. If the situation were close to success then perhaps it would be worthwhile to finish it, but that doesn't seem to be the case.

I weep for our nation today! Mitt Romney is truly the man we need in our White House. Surely, every intelligent conservative can see that.

How can anyone think that Romney was a viable candidate?! People, do your homework, BE INFORMED! Romney flip-flopped so many times no one really knew where he stood.

Please take time to do your OWN homework and stop listening to AM-radio-hate-mongers.

this is AWESOME:

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

so, by mitt's logic ending an illegal war is somehow "surrendering to terrorsts"... is this guy for real??? if so, i'm absolutely GLAD that he's out of the race!!

and now the saddest part is that the GOP "front runner" is EVEN WORSE THAN MITT!! WOW WE ARE SO DOOMED, WAKE UP GOD BLESS RON PAUL THE ONLY REAL REPUBLICAN!!!

The republicans are in total disarray. Willard "flipper" Romney quits....the right wing base hates McCain and says they prefer Hillary...Huckabee thinks we should replace the Constitution with the Bible. They keep on talking about Reagan as if he is Lazarus and will rise from the grave. Having said all that, somehow...someway...the dems will shoot themselves in the foot and blow the election. They always do.

I was really dissapointed when Mitt dopped out, of the race but I can understand his reason. He made it clear that he would continue to fight for American values. These values are:

Strong Families

Strong Economy

Strong Military

These are the things that will keep America strong. I encourage Romney Supporters and all Americans to continue to stand for these values and keep our Nation Strong.

I watched Mitt Romney from the beginning of his run for the nomination.
He represented the best values and the conservative wing has lost a great man. It behooves me that the party didn't support the best candidate, obviously they didn't listen to his message .

A Canadian

THANK YOU GOD!!!
TODAY IS THE BEST DAY OF MY LIFE!!!!
GO MCCAIN!!!

People were able to see Mitt Romney for what he is – a fake. He spent tons of his own money and historically when that happens, people don't like it. He changed his position so many times and said the "right" things just to get elected. I couldn't trust him.

At least McCain is for real and sticks with his positions. That's why people like him.

Maybe the Republican base isn't what it used to be – Reagan was in power 20 years ago folks. It's time to move ahead. America has changed and so must the Republican party!

A great CEO never quits especially while in the mix of chaos. He/she continues to build trust and rapport and forges forward to achieve the goal. Romney portrayed himself as a CEO in both business and in government. His decision is not a good representation of a great CEO. He has let down all of his supporters. I hope others like me will not vote for McCain or they will get another Bush Whitehouse.

Nice spin Mitt, but McCain has no chance against a united Democrate party, it is Bush and the Republican guard, opp party that is at fault. Mitt I thought it was about the economy, now its the war. No wonder your out.
The war will end safely and honorably, but our economy needs fixing now that the Republicans have distroyed. McCain is no leader on the world stage.
Go Hillary.

You can't blame the guy for trying. I mean, this ideology would make sense if America SUPPORTED continuing this war, however, since the vast majority do not, as voter polls and voter turn-out clearly indicate, all what he is essentially doing is saying 'hey, I failed. I have lost. My campaign did not inspire change and I must forfeit as I stand no chance at winning'.. he did this now because the 'Republican party' realize that the full momentum of this election is held by the democratic party and if they don't make some swift changes quickly, they stand EVEN LESS OF A CHANCE than they already have at electing a Republican in our Oval office starting 2009.

Republicans stand no chance in this election. sorry. It won't happen no matter who decides to bail out of this primary. We will have a democratic president for next term.

exactly what hillary should do in the interest of the party and in order to give place to the only movement that will attract enough independents and even attracts repulicans in order to win the november election.

Well, the Democrats want to turn the country into a socialist wellfare state, and the Republicans can't put the bible down long enough to realize how silly they sound pushing creationism.

I couldn't vote for either party anyway, so this makes no difference.

Even now, there are hateful people here who refuse to be mature. This is a good man and a great leader that loved this country. Some of you people should be ashamed.

Example:
"God bless you for suspending your campaign; He didn't want you there anyway…"

Who are you to know what God is thinking? You must be a moron.

Perhaps most do, but how sad to "vote the party, not the person!" If McCain is to become the mantra, then speak Republican as you choose, but not with the semantics of "father in the home and family values" ... that image simply does not belong to McCain. I've actually believed that Mitt Romney reflected "father in the home and family values" ... but that reflection vaporized when he handed his own retreat and defeat to McCain this morning.

So now GOPs are left with a "faux" right-winger", who deep down, can't stand the right. Tell me now, will you folks suck it up and vote for McCain anyway? I can't say I'm sad at the prospect of conservatives having to make that choice.

I suppose you'll be happy, though, as it seems a forgone conclusion that McCain's concession to the right will be to pick Huckabee as his VP.

As a Democrat, I thought there was no way anyone worse than Bush could ever be nominated. I guess Huckabee as VP would be pretty close.

Imagine, a guy second in command, that close to the proverbial button, who interprets the Bible literally. Very, very scary.

Romney should not quit he would win if Bush or Chaney would indorse McCain

Good riddens, goof-ball!! Wow–even in defeat this clown spins the truth!

Truth is it was a badly run campaign by a worse candidate for president!!

Hee hee heeeee!

"Honorable thing to do". Yer killin' me!

Spending that much money and getting that many delegates, what the heck did you THINK he was going to do?
"I'm dropping out because I don't want to support terrorism"? This is a brand new low in spin.

Now he'll follow the party line and support McCain just like McCain when he abandoned his principles and went stumping for Bush in 2000.

What a joke. Only authentic guy coming through on the GOP side is Huckabee and Paul. That would be a true conservative dream ticket.

But it's McCain's turn to be "annointed" because he's "next". Just like they did with Dole in 1996 when Clinton clobbered him.

“I vote the party, not the person.”

Thats why I'm an Independent. Forget the party. Need I throw George Washington's Farewell Address at you?

Poor Rush and Ann; what will the crazy right wingers do now?

The more the so called "conservatives" boo McCain and Huckabee, the more I want to see them on a ticket together.

All conservatives no longer have a voice in this country.

Endure the pain of the first woman and Communist president of this once-great-nation.

Look for the American Nationalist party to emerge sooner that expected.

Woe to America.

Mitt Romney would have taken us into the next stage of fascism. I'm sorry to see him go.

Hey guys. Have you all forgotten Timothy McVie?

He was one of our own. This isn't an Iraq or Afghanistan issue. No one....not republicans not democrats are going to change the minds of sick individuals who use religion or their miscontrued beliefs to bring some justification to their acts of killing innocent people to convey their miscontrued agendas.

I would think concern should be focused on what's happening in our own back yard. Economy, health insurance, mortgage crisis......just to name a few.

Obama or Hillary at this point!!!!

Billy, I 1000% concur. "I vote the party, not the person" sums up 100% what is wrong with both the Democratic and Republican parties in this age. Thank God the GOP woke up and picked McCain. Now hopefully the Dems will do the same and select Barack.

America is taking politics back to the people!

Obama '08! YES WE CAN!

Levi writes...

" If democrats were any smarter, they would be republicans."<<<

Nice. How about "If in your youth you are not a Democrat you have no heart. If in adulthood you are not a Republican you have no brain."

If the spoiler; Mike Huckabee would have stepped aside because he can never win! Mitt would have over 50% of the deligates and be the clear front runner.

I hope the people in the remaining states with primaries don't fall for the two Socialist's calling themselves Republicans. Look at McCain's and Hucabee's Record's both have a history of Liberalism.

We need a true Republican to appeal to undecided voters. Every So Called Change Agent: All Senators with a History in Washington?

If McCain gets the nomination get ready for four years of a Democrat in the White House: Appointed Judges and Controlled Senate. Giddy Up America: We are in for a wild Ride.

Don't go anywhere Mr. Romney; American Needs You more than ever! It is sad: The price tag for President of the United States has gone up so high; based on the created image; standard bell curve of Publicity: Rather than Integrity and Platform to get elected.

Now that it is all about Money:
(Please: Ask: Warren Buffet, Bill Gates, Ross Perot, Forbes, or Mayor Bloomberg : Help the People of the USA contribute or Run for President...)

Could Obama do the same for the sake of his party? Or Reps may keep running White House for next four years...

What will it take Mike Huckabee to concede ?

Good Riddance. It is obvious he would be another Bush if he was elected. Considering Iraq had NO WMDs and WAS NOT a safe haven for terrorist BEFORE the REPUBLICANS invaded the place then he sure cant blame hte Democrats for wanting to leave the mess the REPUBLICANS created.

With only 3 people left in the GOP race, you can bet that CNN will still only talk about 2 of them.

"In this time of war, I simply cannot let my campaign be a part of aiding a surrender to terror.”

This man is an idiot. The only sensible thing he ever did was quit the race.

If anyone on this board ACTUALLY BELIEVES that if Democrats win the White House, "the terrorists win" (whatever that means), please PLEASE, I beg you, do some research, don't succumb to the politics of fear, they only do that to scare the uninformed public. Read up on the candidates, open your minds, figure it out for yourself.

The election will offer a stark contrast between the Republicans who got us into this catastrophic war and who promise endless war, and the Democrats who will try to end it. Voters should not be mislead into thinking McCain is a moderate.
His mentality is that of the neoconservative hawks who got us into this mess.

Blah blah blah. "I vote the party not the person." What a good soldier mentality. If the party told Republicans to snitch off anyone who didn't think like them, would they become good brown-shirts? Romney probably figured spending his own money to try and buy the presidency was too expensive. C'est la vie, Republican style.

Why is everyone so surprised? We should've seen this coming from a mile away, after his big defeat on Tuesday. He was a joke from the start, good riddance...

Hey Mark – It must be nice to live in Canada... It may be easier to be in denial when your own country is not the target.

If you believe Iraq did NOT have an Al Queda presence... You are only fooling yourself... You can't tell me – as I have served my country on the ground in Iraq. You can't tell me – I saw it with my own two eyes.

Turning our tails and running now because it got hard is the biggest mistake that could be made...

“I vote the party, not the person.” - that pretty much sums up what is wrong with people who are too attached to either political party. Considering how much republicans supposedly love America, wouldn't it make more sense to say "I vote for whoever is the best person for the country." One would think so. But many people will only vote for the person who represents their party, even if that person is not the best candidate. The current occupant of the Oval Office shows how bad that line of thinking can be.

"Make Fun Buddy" – Ron Paul to Mitt Romney at SC Presidential debate

Who is making fun now?

Good Riddance ya fool.

Hey, essar1:

Could you maybe expand on your "two dumbest things" remark? For one thing (and it truly is), you mention three things. But for another, you simply transcribed perfectly reasonable quotes from the article, and say "You can't make this stuff up". This is prototypical liberal warfare: If you can't formulate a cogent response on your own- make fun of someone else's! Gee, it must be fun to be a liberal.

Romney has my greatest respect and admiration.

Hey, Andrew & Bushie. Your comments are juvenile and small-minded. You are jerks, which probably makes your day but at least it is the only language that you have the intellectual capacity to understand..

I am amazed at the complete ignorance of the liberal american. you have very intelligent very good influencial people warning that if any democrates become president and just up and pull us out of the war, or if they (and none of them do ) have the guts and backbone to stand up to the terrorist leaders and back up your defense policy for this country. we are doomed. This is not s joke, it is very serious. yet you all want either hillary who will destroy the country without terrist help or obama who cant manage a Dairy queen, to run this country just so you can say you beat the republicans ? ? . that is no reason to scrap this country i dont believe we have any choices from either side. so why cant we agree on this point and find a way to get some candidates we want instead of the ones big corporate america wants. why cant we take back our election and government without a revolution. i dont think that anyone wants our country to collapse (accept for the clintons they stand to benefite from our demise some way ). if we put as much effort in finding a solution to the problem as we do fighting and bickering we might just pull it off...

Hey Mark – It must be nice to live in Canada... It may be easier to be in denial when your own country is not the target.

If you believe Iraq did NOT have an Al Queda presence... You are only fooling yourself... You can't tell me – as I have served my country on the ground in Iraq. You can't tell me – I saw it with my own two eyes.

Turning our tails and running now because it got hard is the biggest mistake that could be made...

"...about this, I have no doubt"??? Well, Mitt, I have no doubt that you were simply a fear-mongering, flip-flopping, out-of-touch-with-reality candidate relying on the nod-your-heads-at-anything-I-say lemmings for support.

"surrender to terror"? Your supporters must have surrendered their brains to believe some of the nonsensible, easily falsifiable drivel coming out of your mouth.

With time on your hands, maybe you and your boys can REALLY do something to fight the war on terror. ENLIST! (Fat chance)

I really thought Huckabee would have "suspended" his run before Romney, but I figured both would have quit before the end of February. Hopefully, Romney will throw some delegates to the only man who actually has DIFFERENT views than McCain, Ron Paul. Plus, he needs them Romney.

Ron Paul 2008!!!

Levi ......There are many,many bad leaders in this world who have killed their citizens, from Africa to Cambodia and we didn't intervene.So are we guilty for not invading those countries? Perhaps we are.....

He is clearly the most qualified candidate, I am surprised he made this decision....

Ive voted for Ron Paul and will continue to. I wish you all would wake up listen to Dr. Paul and then you would see he is fighting for you. He has been saying the same things since he has been in congress. Please just listen to the man he is your voice. The first time I heard him speak I could not believe my ears its the same thing ive been thinking my whole life. I will vote for Ron Paul because he is fighting for our freedom he is a true Patriot.

...As our politics suggest!

Is it just me, or did Romney seem like a crazy Ken-doll to anyone else? He's always come off as plastic-very fake-whenever I have seen him speak and if he had won the election, I'd have had to seriously consider moving to Canada!!

Obama '08!

Christian writes...

The war must end, and the Democrats will make it happen.<<<

Didn't they say that two years ago? The truth is neither Obama or Hillary will end anything despite their claim to the contrary and both of them know it. But it's the popular thing to say so they'll say it. Both of them say we need a military presence in Iraq to protect our interests...well what do you think that means? It means we're not going anywhere. BTW...when they refer to "change" and then in the next breath say things like "shared financial responsibility" it becomes clear to me that the "change" they are talking about is what will be left in our bank accounts after they tax us to death.

Take your marbles, um, millions and go home.

And yes, the Republicans do look like fools, but then again, they haven't looked so smart for the last eight years either...

Wow, is this guy full of himself. He's STEPPING ASIDE to HELP AMERICA. As though HE HIMSELF has the power to HELP or HARM America, just by virtue of whether he shovels millions of his own dollars into a race he's bound to lose, anyway. Whatevah, Mittens!

Romney wanted to go out with at least some respect and seriousness which he might not have gotten later.

My question is now that McCain pretty much has the nomination, will he be able to unite the party in time including the large conservative base?

"So now are choices are McCain or Huckabee?"

or Ron Paul. Educate yourself and do a service for your country.

"The suggestion that a Democratic administration would somehow enable terrorists is proof enough that this moron (Romney) does not belong in the White House."

Ditto.

Good Riddance to another war monger and practitioner of the Politics of Fear. Thank God we are almost done with the republican reign of terror!!!

Mark from Toronto, I don't recall anyone asking the opinion of anyone from Canada. Your problems are much more serious than ours. I am a Nationalist and proud of it. Borders, language, culture. McClinton is not good for our country (but still not as disastrous as Hillobama). And Baseline Punk, you are obviously not a Republican so your opinion hardly counts. The vindictive side of me truly hopes that, after I am long gone, the liberals get what they wanted–pure social communism. Most rewarding in that scenario would be to see the looks on the faces of the Barbra Streisand and Susan Sarandon successors when the government restributes THEIR wealth. Can't have them earn more than the national average, after all. But alas, the nation won't survive long enough to see that. Islamic fascists will have taken us over from within by bribing our political and industrial leaders to trade away our country in exchange for short-term profit and power.

Bushie Smalls February 7, 2008 1:45 pm ET

Mitt, the post for Mormon church president is still vacant. You can be the next prophet.

and

AM MN February 7, 2008 1:47 pm ET

HA! Good, go back to your crazy Mormon family & church…Buh-Bye creepy guy

This country was based on religious freedom. You two are the real CREEPS. It is sick to me that you would belittle the prophet of this religion and its members. Christian you are not.

what a loser

in the race!
might be out of the race...
NO, We're in the race!
ok, we're out of the race.

'flip-flop, flip-flop'
What's that sound? Oh, its just Mittens!

this is great news..

mitt couldn't buy the presidency.

here comes huckabee. i actually think mccain could crumble with the conservatives pulling for huckabee

Good riddance to this evil clown. Now get rid of everyone else who fell for that communist one-party system proposed by the Newt back in the day. Quit implying that the other party are traitors, and let's either get America back to work or disband it into independent states. Heh, THIS was your New Reagan?

The republican brainwash on the war of terror is getting tiring. If anything we dug the hole for ourselves in Iraq. I agree with Mark above that the war in Iraq was built on a lie and the previous presidency win was built on a fear campaign. Barak and Hillary will actually focus the war on to the real source of terror – Osama Bin Laden.

One Republican down.. 2 to go..

Glad that Romney was able to remind every what's really important. That voting for anyone but the Republicans means terrorists will come to your homes and punch you in the face. Don't you love politics?

I don't buy that lame excuse of his– that whole Democrats-will-allow-terror-to-reign-supreme-by-pulling-out-troops. that's bull! It's gotta be a money issue. Hillary....you're going to need more than 5 M to make it. You and Obama gotta get together on this to keep McCain out! We can't let that happen.

Now that McCain is the likely republican candidate, the only one to defeat him is Hillary. If Obama gets the Democ. nod, then McCain will win hands down. Republicans know this, that's why they desperately want Obama to win. Wonder if the Democrats are dumb enough to fall for this...

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".

This type of argument mixing facts and fantasy is why the Democratic Party is going to win in November. The Republican party has been in control too long, It's time for a change!

"I vote the party, not the person."

This is what is wrong with a two-party system. I can't think of a more asinine way of deciding who wins your vote.

Independent and proud of it!

He's just "suspending" it because he hopes McCain will croak before the nomination.

Mitt: "He's 72 years old, maybe if he goes under I'll still have a chance"...

Yeah, he's that much of a vulture.

Hey Mitt.....War on terror..???
As a New Yorker please tell me...Where is Osama? Why are the Taliban still in power? You republicans and your war on terror......"YOU HAVE FAILED" I can see ground zero from my office....and Osama and the Taliban can see it on the web. 7 years with a Republican president who has failed to destroy the people who attacked my home town. You...Mr. Mitt and your party have failed!!!!!!!

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

As opposed to what? Staying forever and still being defeated?

What an honorable thing to do. I can't wait to vote for him when his campaign is no longer "suspended."
And Mark don't be ignorant. 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."

“in this time of war, I simply cannot let my campaign be a part of aiding a surrender to terror.” ???
What an irrational statement this is!.

His supporters were surprised?! Do they live in a third world country or something? Where were they when the results of Super Tuesday were announced. Come on people!

“in this time of war, I simply cannot let my campaign be a part of aiding a surrender to terror.” ???
What a irrational statement this is!.

The last line of this article, "I vote the party, not the person" sums up everything that is wrong with the American political system as it is currently constructed. It makes me sick. Our founding fathers would revolt at a statement like that.

Come on...the intentions of the GOP are always so clearly obvious. I guarantee Romney was promised the Vice-Presidential position on McCain's ticket. Watch for it. McCain-Romney still will not beat the Dems.

I am a conservative republican – but if my choice is McCain or Hillary – I will take Hillary any day.

After millions of $$$$ of his own pocket spent in this race.... I am sad because he would have been an easy candidate to defeat in November...

he only 'suspended' the race so he can continue to accept donations to pay himself back for the money he loaned his campaign.

if he had ended it he wouldnt be able to continue to accept funds.

Romney said "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.”

Oh PLEASE! Attacks on America because we pull our troops out of Iraq? What a disingenuous statement! You don't REALLY believe that! Politics of fear as usual. Good riddance to you!

Mark – a Canadian that knows more about things than many Americans... I couldn't agree with you more.

See ya, Mitt.

Is there a reason for Huckabee to remain in the race other than he wants to hear his name spoken in the news..I think he'll be "suspending" his campaign now since the real reason he stayed in it was to block Mitt Romley..I think Republican politics are the dirtiest.

Translation: I didn't hold on to this much money by throwing good money after bad. It's either McCain or Huckabee, and I'm not opening my wallet any longer.

The Democrats will win the White House due in part to fear mongering Republicans and, of course, the GOP corruption and lies that Americans have put up with for almost 8 years now, not to mention the state of the economy. In my opinion, Iraq is a no win situation and I believe most Americans know that by now. America cannot afford to take a chance on another fear mongering Republican this time around. The Republicans/GOP have just about brought this country to its knees.

Thank you Mitt! Now with this clown off the stage we will have a chance to see the only real conservative win this race: Ron Paul.

Suspend means that Romeny can still collect donations, to pay himself back some of the $35 million he loaned his campaign.

This quote from Mitt Romney's resignation speech...."We cannot allow the next President of The Untied States to retreat in the face of evil extremism"....

I agree....."We (meaning THE AMERICAN PEOPLE) cannot allow the next President of The Untied States (Hillary Clinton) to retreat in the face of evil extremism (meaning THE REPUBLICAN PARTY)"....

Thanks for your endorsement, Mitt.

Mitt Romney was the only Right Man for the position of President of this country. How saddened we are to see that McCain and Huckabee will have the spoils. Wish that Romney would stay in and ride it out...stop spending money and coast. He would have seen a complete turnaround in the Texas Primary. McCain and Huckabee are not right or qualified for President. Ron Paul is more qualified. At least he knows the Constitution. It's a bad day for the U.S. when the very BEST Candidate has to leave the race because of predicted numbers and the Media. If the Media hadn't tried to chose the candidate, this would never have happened. The Media Ignored Romney. Everyone declares that the Economy is the most important item and yet, they chose McCain or Huckabee........neither of whom know anything or have the right education and background for President. Romney's withdrawal is a Greater Loss than America realizes at this time. If McCain were smart and not a smart-alec and so disdainful and arrogant, he would chose Romney for his Veep.....IF McCain gets that far. The GOP should MAKE McCain chose him, because Romney is a man of integrity and character. He's serious minded, loves this country, and doesn't try to 'entertain' like clown Huckabee.

Well, I won't vote for McCain or Huckabee for anything. If Mitt is going to drop out, my vote goes to Obama. We don't need another 4 years of any more Bush politics and having McCain is doing just that. Even Clinton is better than McCain or Huckabee. At least Obama and Clinton care about the small people who make up our great country.

OH HAPPY DAY. GREAT INVESTMENT MITT. 35 MILLION AND NOTHING TO SHOW FOR IT. GOOD JOB!

Now, is Huckabee next? McCain – Huckabee 2008 ?

I bet he announces it within a week.

Looks like they are getting ready to play the Obama is an appeaser card.

“I vote the party, not the person.”

THAT is exactly what's wrong with politics in this country.

“I vote the party, not the person.”

That is really the problem, isn't it? I can never understand why someone would vote a party line.

I guess it is easier to have someone else do your thinking for you.

“I vote the party, not the person.”

And there, in a nutshell, is the root cause of many of our governmental problems. Blindly supporting any party, basically putting the party's fortunes above the country's, is complete foolishness.

Why are all the "conservatives" shocked? This guy has flip-flopped on just about everything that he ran his campaign on. He just said on Tuesday that he was still in the race. Mitt, like McVain, lie about where the Democrats stand on the war in Iraq hoping that if people hear it enough that they will belive it. This is just more of the typical Republican rhetoric. Wake up Republicans... most Americans don't approve of the war in Iraq! You just want to keep the White House by whatever lies and deception you can contrive. This is just too funny! The GOP is finally paying the price for delivering the worst president ever!

"in this time of war.." Oh vomit.. Can't any Republican candidate
not abuse this trumped up folly in Iraq or the ever popular "9/11" ?
These are tottaly self created problems. It doesn't matter where the
war is or who the boogeyman is when it comes to these politicians,
it's just an excuse to do things and something to use to terrorize
the populace with to get their way. A self induced crisis is still a crisis and they
come rushing in with the "solutions" to the problem they created, making them the
"hero" who saved us all from the bad guys..And i fear that the politicos and
lobbyists will continue to create crisis and trump up problems for their own
selfish needs..Pretty soon, crisis and reactionary politics is the norm..
(Credit to George Orwell there for those concepts and a bit of paraphrasing)

Mitt, your a phoney egomaniac,go back to whatever factory you came
from and take your Stepford Wife and kids with you..You no more represent
reality in the world than a Ken Doll represents a man..

Another war monger bites the dust!

Nikunj
Sugar Land, TX

Why the surprise? Here is a guy with a track record that says "FLIP FLOP." His withdrawal from the race after saying he was in it to stay is just par for the course with him.

So, as a conservative I can back Huckabee knowing that either Clinton or Obama will beat him handily, or I can support McCain who has a chance to win. Not much of a choice but I'd rather see McCain as President than Clinton or Obama.

Haven't the Republicans worn out the "Democarts love terrorists and hate the US rhetoric already? The only ones listening to this nonsense are themselves and now they're surprised their time in the white house is up? get real.

First, you can't call yourself a Christian and be a Mormon at the same time. Why didn't anyone bring up the issuse of the prejudice within the Mormon Organnization? Second, It's a lie, Romney droped out because of money, it wasn't noble stance. Whoever President, Republican or Democratic, will deal with Terrorism. Same old fear tactics. Oh yea...most Evangelicals are a joke. Why don't they tell the true about the Word of God? Sad to say, most American don't have a clue about what is really happening with this Country and especially the whole World. I WOULD DEBATE, TO A POINT, ANY ONE IN POLITICS OR ANY SO CALL CHRISTIAN LEADER OR PERSON IN POWER. I WELCOME YOU!!!

hahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahaah.......nice.

So let me understand this. Romney is getting out of the race, he's conceding to Mcain. Basically he is declaring defeat and retreating. All the while in the same breath he is saying the democrats are bad because they want to, as Romney puts it, declare defeat and retreat. But right now isn't Romney doing exactly the same thing. I see this as more of the hypocrisy of politics and the right – listen to what I say, don't look at what I do.

Stay in Canada Mark, your an idiot if you can't answer your own ?? Mitt's smart and knows what is best for the Republicans at this time, you're obviously a Dem and wouldn't understand.

Just because America is tired of the Bush Administration's fear-mongering and lies doesn't mean a vote for Democratic candidates is "surrendering to terror". That's patently ridiculous and offensive to those of us that hope the Democrats can rebuild our tarnished reputation which breeds terror in the first place. And "I vote the party, not the person"? Why on earth anyone thinks like this is incomprehensible to me. Do we really have to categorize everything as one of two choices? Laziness is all that is.

Time to vote in Obama so we can laugh at his Third World approach to politics. Of course, he is of Kenyan descent, look at how they are doing right about now...

If there is anything resembling America left after his 4 years, Mitt can return to rebuild!

Romney, you just made a complete fool of every regan Republican. What a two-faced coward you are. And talk about no backbone! Thank, God, you did quit: with such a weak spine, you would have lost any war our country had to fight in the years to come. In some ways, you were nothing more than a Napoleon: in search of a grat title to add to your name, but really more selfish than patriotic. have the guts to admit the truth: you quit because you didn't want to spend anymore of your precious money, not that you were worried about our country. People like Laura Ingram and Rush and Hannity have got to be feeling like absolute idiot by nw for having called you the great hope for America. If anything, you are a disgrace to anyone who ever loved this nation.

I was surprised to hear of Mitt suspending his campaign and little sad. I felt he was the best republican candidate. I wish Huckabee would have swallowed is pride and dropped out because his bigotry is disgusting. I just want to see McCain and Huckabee go at each other now because they seemed so 'buddy, buddy' when they went after Mitt. McCain won't make it to the White House because he has divided his party. I will surely be voting democrat this time around. Mitt 2012!

Vvoting for the party and not the person....clearly why our country keeps running in circles.

Yes, "suspend." Like wet clothes hung out to dry.

Okay Mitt. Blame the Democrats for your unelectability instead of the Republican voters who simply said "No way" to your phony persona.

Good riddance to a bad candidate. Romney was just another clueless rich guy who was born on third base and thinks he hit a triple. We've had that for the past eight years.

Guess wrapping yourself in the Reagan cloak ain't all it's cracked up to be, huh?

Good decision for the party and the country. Obama should do the same. If Obama gets the nomination, my vote will sadly go to McCain

I guess since Giuliani dropped out, somebody else had to try and scare us all by dropping the terror bomb. This message is to everyone who still thinks that Iraq had anything to do with the terrorist attacks of September 11th – Please do not let people scare you into ignorance, and inform yourselves before voting in November.

Oh well! One down and one to go! I wonder who is next??!!
Let's continue to press on my "Dem" buddies.
Go Barack!

I'm not a Romney fan at all, but I'm shocked too. He ought to jump on board the McCain train.

More likely, Mitt's team calculated how much more of his own money he'd have to put in and he had a cow. Even more likely, Mrs. Mitt had the cow and told him to drop out..

"I vote the party, not the person" said someone quoted for the article. That is a major problem-in both parties. People don't want to listen and hear what someone stands for and wants to do- they just vote like sheep.

No matter what people say, after all Romney seems to be the most honorable candidate from the Republicans. I am Democrat but wouldn't have had any problem voting for him especially if Hillary wins the Democratic nomination. I can not say the same about the rest of Republicans. Huckabee is a joke and I really don't like McCain. I thought that McCain would only get the 'cranky old men's vote' and really don't understand what happend to the Republicans to support him. As I sad, it's a really sad day for USA (and at the same time happy for McCain, Huckabee and their supporters) for the choice left on the Republican's side.

..."I vote the party, not the person"

How ignorant is THAT! Try thinking for yourself a little.

As the McCain campaign has pointedly demonstrated, the concept of a united Republican Party is a falacy of the grandest proportions (same goes for the Democrats). Everything from the crowd's reaction at this "rally" at mentioning of John McCain, to the idiotic and... insane statements made by Limbaugh and Coulter, proves that the "house that Reagan built" currently stands on unstable pillars.

While the leader of a party sets the tone for just about everything it does, each constituent changes a party's feel and attitude a little bit according to that person's individual influence and personal idioms.

Free-thinking individuals shape and change things, not parties. The only way this is false is if people allow themselves to be herded and their wills' bent to the desires of others. Only animals like sheep, cows, and the like act this way, or at least SHOULD act this way. As every good conservative knows humans are not and never have been animals, right Gov. Huckabee...

Mitt Romney is not only a better candidate than McCain and Huckabee, he is also a lot more handsome.

“Barack 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.”

You can always count on a true conservative to use the fear factor. 911 was the GOP's dream come true. Fear and ignorance can be harnessed like........well solar energy (which clearly has not been harnessed during this run of record profits for big oil). Clearly the GOP have put all their energy into harnessing fear, keeping us hooked on foreign oil, and getting Exxon the biggest profits in history. Time for a change people, good bye Mitt, you'll be soon (like by the time this sentence is completely typed) forgotten all together.

Mitt Romney"s speech was excellent. What a sad day for America! What hurts the worst is that now his supporters will now go to Barrack Obama.

Looks like the Republicans have officially kicked off the "Vote for a Democrat and terrorists will kill us all" part of their campaign for the whitehouse.

It appears Hillary and Mitt have something in common – neither have the capacity to campaign with a shred of Grace or Dignity. Honorable? If I could say something to that student, I'd suggest that the honorable thing to do would be to back the candidate of your party. Since day one, Mitt has crowned himself the next Ronald Regan – and he's not. He thinks he's better than we are...and that's a trend we've had quite enough of.

Shame on you, Mitt. You could have brought the party together. By acting like a child, you merely added to the fracture.

More politics of fear. I'm not buying it.

And he exits with more Republican fear mongering. I thought he was above that. Guess not.

This is a sad day.

But notice that he didn't speak about the economy that much...he probably didn' t want to pour salt in his supporters wounds by remindng them that the economy is now being left in the hands of an incompetent like McCain. I swear, if McCain even mentions Romney's name today, I'll vomit! I can hear it now...he'll praise romneys decision and talk about how he is such a good man blah blah blah...once again more lip service from McAmnesty. I would prefer he come out an express his distain for Romney, I would feel less disgusted by that!!

But where do we go from here? I guess I just don't care anymore.

It's a good thing Romney was running in the party of family values and high moral standing.

The advance nonsense down here in Texas clearly focuses on him being a Mormon, and it's being driven by the Baptist crowd to boot.

Congrats to Huckleberry for running interference for McCain; now he gets the VP slot!

I am so sad today but I will be backing the only conservative left in the race-Mike Huckabee. Please, America, stand up for conservative values and say no to John McCain.

His supporters were shocked? Were they living under a rock? McCain (unfortunately) has the nominee in a walk. Mitt didn't have a prayer anyway.

I bet Fred Thompson and Rudy Giuliani wished they would have waited to throw in the towel. They'd be a good alternative to McKeating...I mean McCain.

None of these guys get it. We aren't fighting a war on terror, we're fighting a war on straw men because the Right needs to fight a war on terror. Unfortunately, the "straw" men and women in Iraq and Afghanistan bleed real blood, as do the soldiers we send to fight them.

You can't defeat terrorism by waging war on nations and you can't create a democracy at gunpoint.

We need a new paradigm: terrorism is defeated when it is irrelevant. We will defeat terrorism by doing justice in our foreign policy, becoming a good citizen among nations again as we have not been since the end of the Marshall plan.

If McCain wins, the nation and the world loses.

"I vote the party not the person". And we wonder why our politcal system is so screwed up in this country.

This is a good thing. Romney was splitting true conservative votes, and now Huckabee can gather in all the votes. People need to start donating money to the cause...Obama, Hillary, and McCain are rolling in the dough. Conservatives need to cash in a CD and support Huckabee if we want a decent choice later this year.

Mitt's exit speech defines why he couldn't win sufficient support. Disagreeing with the Iraq war, which 70% of Americans do, does not equate "surrendering to terrorists." Before the US military landed in Iraq there were no Al Queda and other countries (like Canada) are involved in Afghanistan, which is where the US should have focused its energy. This kind of outrageous hyperbole (lies is probably more accurate) explains why Mitt and his millions couldn't find traction. By the way – how many of his five sons served in the military?

The odds were stacked against him so why spent millions more to continue the fight for the nomination? The writing was on the wall after Super Tuesday.
It now comes down to McCain vs either Obama or Clinton. Even with her many perceived and real faults, I'll go for experience over vision and hope this time around. He'll have his day.....

I guess for now we'll all have to plug our noses. Please run again, Romney!

I was leaning toward Mitt over all the other Republican candidates and after seeing that he really does care so much for our country and what a disaster a democrat victory next November would be. It is time to moved to the second best option. Based on Mitt 's message for conservitive unity and what is right for America I and I hope all intelligent Americans will back and elect John McCain as our next President.

What a wimp! What a quitter! And What a liar! This is all about the money. He has already spent $35 million of his family fortune for what? So he could be a quitter? This is why we need a long campaign cycle so we can really see what these people are made of. You can say a lot about McCain and Huckabee but quitter is not in their vocabulary.
Good riddance, Mitt.

Good – you idiots – you don't like McCain all that well – so let's not vote and let the demos (either Hillary or Barack) get the White house. Won't that be wonderful and advance and protect the conservative ideals of self reliance, less government, etc.
Duh!

Mitt I believed in you. Dont insult your supporters by claiming your dropping out because of unity. Your really quitting because you must pay monies out of your pocket. What a waste of time. I have one question for you. Why did you say just the other day you would continue? Never Again will you get may support in anything you r

but ultimately “I vote the party, not the person.”

WOW!!!!! Nothing like thinking for yourself, eh?

Couldn't CNN find a less attractive picture? Seriously.
Well, Romney's quitting isn't going to make me enamored to McCain's camp, because unlike Romney, I don't vote the party. I vote the person. If it's McCain vs. Obama, I'm leaning Obama. If it's McCain vs. Clinton, McCain will have to earn my vote.

Great news, good bye and bad luck!

I am truly sad, but figured this was coming sooner or later. It will be interesting to see who Mccain has as a VP! I think I will write Mitt's name in in Nov. unless McCain puts him in as VP! But am so sad! Hopefully Mitt will be now able to take a much earned long vacation!

–His friend Andrew Trout added that, despite hostility from many of conservative activists at CPAC this week, John McCain had a shot at winning their support – a great deal depended, he said, on the senator’s speech later Thursday afternoon. Romney represented conservative values better than anyone else in the race, he said, but ultimately “I vote the party, not the person.”

Thats the problem with you clowns. You vote the party and not the person. Your lemming-like behavior is an injustice to the spirit of the Constitution and the freedoms that make us great.

I'm tired of the kind of mean-spirited attacks like this:

“Barack 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.”

I don't believe this is true. I don't believe Romney had any real ideas aboput making America safer, and I do believe this this kind of venomous devisiveness is as toxic to the nation as anything the terrorists can do.

Good riddance to this man.

I was expecting him to announce Huckabee as his running mate, not this. I'm bummed on one hand, but on the other hand nobody even knew who Mitt was a year ago. Now they do, the Mormon thing has already been played out and is now old news, Mitt has four years to be consistent on his message and unite conservatives, and he's in a great spot to run in '12. Remember, Reagan lost the first time he ran for president too.

“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.”

Attention to all candidates:

The politics of fear is over. Goodbye Mitt and anybody else who employs these disgustingly base tactics.

GOOD RIDDANCE.

I see Romney still hasn't read the report from the CIA and Internal affairs as to the reason terrorists attack us. IT is because we are over there with our nose in their business.( Get the log out of your own eye before you try to get the speck out of someone elses. Do unto others as you would have them do unto you. ) Some wise guy said that a long time ago.

Romney was too right-eous for the new era in Republicans' politics; so is Huckabeee when it is all done and said. America no longer is seeking the virutous President. Nicks, tucks, bruises and marks are no longer held against people seeking the higher position. The people seem to seek one of their own: a few scraps, a few brushes and a drink at the end of the crisis. Romney was too straight and people could not relate as was Edwards.
Mc Cain wants to draw all people together – many in war and more wars.
If I recall my history President Reagen sent people to bed thinking there would be a war the next day but to have changed his plans and did not send one peron to battle the next morning. And how many years and Presidents later were we attacked? I am still confused how we were looking for a man said to be in one country and we go to battle with a ruthless ruler who attempted to kill our current President's father.
The Republicans need a seaunce to ask President Reagan what to do next since they seem to be trying desperately to shadow him!
Personality- Huckabee comes closer in my thoughts.

Mr. Romney indicated that Clinton and Obama would surrender and accept defeat in the Iraq war. Well, Mr. Romney, the US is being defeated everyday that we spend American dollars and lose American lives on a war that cannot be won by American military. When is America going to realize that the war in Iraq has nothing to do with Terror in America. None of the 9/11 individuals were from Iraq. When is the media going to print that? When is McCain going to admit that? American dollars being spent in Iraq can be spent on healthcare for Americans, education for American children. So Mr. Romney your exit from this race cannot be because you don't want to be the one to ensure that America will not win in Iraq. Your current sitting President made that decision (America cannot win) when he made the decision to invade Iraq. I wish everyone running would admit the truth that Iraq is not about Terror in America.

This is a sacrificial move on Romney's part for the destiny of his party. It's going to be very interesting to see if the conservatives who were so against McCain are going to buy this move by Romney. It would probably be in the best interests for the conservatives to back McCain, but will they do it? This was a very interesting move and its going to have a lot of buzz within the GOP.

Absolutely ingenious. Romney, in stepping aside, has actually become the unifier of the Republican party. Not McCain. Plus, he pretty much dashed the hopes of Huckabee and forces McCain to pander to the conservative movement, all at the same time,. Mitt Romney IS the best candidate of the 2008 race, and he just proved it. Let's see if we can't get him back in four years, when McCain has to retire. I'm a Mitt supporter, and I will now support the Republican nominee, because that's what he's asked.

So will his supporters now support Huckabee? If we want any sort of conservative, Huckabee is now the man to back. If there is now a groundswell of support for Huckabee, he can still take this nomination back from McCain.

Good riddance, now I could care less who wins the nomination, WITH THIS GUY OUT OF THE PICTURE AMERICA IS SAFE!!

Romney puts party before country as well as the student mentioned at the end of the piece. There in lies the problem with the GOP

Hey Mitt:

Every war is an expression of failure none more so than this one. Obama and Clinton are in favor of quick and RESPONSIBLE withdrawal from Iraq. That may mean that your stocks may take a beating as the Millitary/Industrial complex is still alive and well. TOUGH!

"John McCain [has] a shot at winning their support." It's not like it'll be hard for him to get their support when they "vote the party, not the person." Sheesh.

It's a sad day...I will be voting Democratic this election. I will NEVER vote for McCain. I vote people, not party.

There is a god after all!!!! This megalomniac couldn't connect with ordinary Americans....nothing more, nothing less.

Mitt Romney gave the best speech that I have ever heard him give today up until he pulled out of the race. I watched all the debates and can tell you if he had started his campaign talking about the issues like he did today he would have been in first place.
I am a Republican and I wanted to hear him on issues and not talking about McCain, which I didn't vote for in the primary.All of the people are sick of the infighting of both parties. Just look at Hillary she is proof that name calling isn't working this election. She let her husband ruin her campaign so far with name calling. (She needs to send Bill home) Obama has no experience and from watching him debate I see he has very few answers to the issues. Besides being a nice person with a nice family I just don't see where he has near enough experience to run a country. Lately honestly I find him alittle scary, we older people know no one person can turn this world into heaven on earth.
He said the other night that he was going to fix this country and then the world, that's when I started to worry. Don't most of his supporters want to do away with our milatary and do what ever it takes to not fight to protect our country... I think I read about a man that lived years ago in Germany that had followers just like this.
People be careful what you pray for because you just might get it...

I do not for one minute believe that Mitt stepped aside "for the good of the country." He has shown himself as a self serving individual who would have been another curse on this nation of hard working Americans. His dishonesty and vindictiveness came through in the waning throws of his campaign. Save all the drama about his concern for our national security. If he is so for the war on terror, he should offer up some of his boys to go fight it along with everybody else.

Good riddance Mitt Romney...

I am saddened by Mitt's departure from the race, but....

We must keep in mind the following facts.

The Clinton's are not qualified to lead the nation. Bill became unqualified the day he showed disrespect for Americans, women, the country, and the presidency. His presence near power would be a tragedy. The social engineering nightmare Hillary would bring in the name of change is unacceptable.

The unknown Mr Obama is just a young and untesteted version of liberal agenda....just look at his backers.

Although there is much to be modified in John McCain's platform, we must look at the bigger picture. Mitt, you have my respect.

God Bless America

It is good to have the most superficial of all presidential hopefuls out of the race. Romney's spiteful shot at the two Democratic candidates gives an excellent example of what a dirty campaign he would have conducted had the primary process not shown him for the phoney he is. The four major remaining contenders will provide better leadership for this country. Good riddance.

all you haters of romney..pay close attention to McCains speech and see if you hate Romney after so much. Stop gripping over how much money he has made..guess what THEY all have money! Differance being here one knows how to make a great porfolio and the other..well let's just say we shall see how great economy becomes with the likes of Obama, Clinton, or McCain. Strong America? not likely we are loosing credability all over the world, and have been for a very long time (longer than Bush presiding) Wake up more of the same is coming our way.tug a wars..nothing being done.. no voice..and a slow slow economy.

What? Honorable? He should have quit well before super Tuesday with those excuses.

It is sad when the people don't recognize who is the best man with values, decency and morality. Only time will tell the reality but the consequences would be terrible as Romney says.

It would be nothing but Poetic Justice if Romney called Mike and stated: if you stay in, you can have my delegates at the convention. Image John's face if Mitt showed up at the convention and this were to occur. This would shock the Repub. party. It will surely give Mitt a chance to get back at McCain......I don't know if Huck would go along with the idea or not. I think he might b/c I for one am not buying his preacher man act.

Great. Apparently the Republicans don't need a conservative to run anymore anyway. Now we get to decide if we want a super-liberal or a moderate-liberal from the two main parties.

Please – oh – please Ron Paul run as a third party candidate.

Looks to me like mr. Flip-Flop is cutting and running...

Must really suck to be Ingram. I watched the whole thing on the tube, thinking all the time that I knew something she (and the rest of the poor saps in attendance didn't). HA!

Real nice, Mitten . You just tried to play Reagan and made the whole Republican party look like fools.

I'll be warming my hands over that great Big Tent that's quickly flaming out.

Chuch On The Move!

Why the word "suspend". I hope there is a ground swell when the Republicans realiwe what they have done leaving McCain and Huckabee as the two contenders. I hope for a groud-swell that will put Romney on the ticket with or without the party nomination. Then the word suspend (carefully chosen by Romeny, to be sure) will have the new meaning I hope for.

“Barack 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, that doesn't make sense. Dropping out now will help the Republicans? Staying in the race will help the Democrats? You are basically saying that you are a liability to the Republican party.

Hey Mitt, please don't use Iraq and the War on Terror in the same sentence. They are two separate things. To equate them dishonors the almost 4000 US soldiers who have died, along with tens of thousands of innocent Iraqis, not to mention the trillions this war has cost. The Iraq War was built on a lie; Al Qaeda had no presence in Iraq before the US invaded.

And Mitt, politics of fear may be an strategy that has worked before for the Republicans, but not anymore.

Mitt Romney saw the same writing on the wall John Edwards did. But for him to go out saying the U.S. will experience another terrorist attack worse than anything under the Taliban is irresponsible and immoral. This is the Republican mantra "fear fear terror terror," and Americans aren't buying it any more. Or maybe they've figured out the way to prevent a terrorist attack on American soil is to actually have soldiers ON AMERICAN SOIL.

There IS a God!!! Guess Romney couldn't "take the heat" so decided to "get the Hell out of the kitchen"!!!! I Love It! More Republicans should drop out!!!! It would be a much better world!

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...........

"I vote the party, not the person"

Ugh.

Mitt I may not agree with your politics, but I can't deny that you showed courage and that you are a true gentleman and patriot.

Quitting so the wars can go on unabated.

One more war monger out of the way.

Go Clinton and Obama!

I will vote for whoever is on the ballot with a "D" by their name.

Making ludicrious comments similar to Bush's 06' remarks that a Democratic victory in November is equivilant to "the terrorists winning" is yet another reason people are tired of this guys act. No wonder this guy got roasted on Super Tuesday.

This country and BOTH parties are ready to put aside these kinds of false and useless jabs aside for sound stretegic thinking in the Iraq war that isn't just about party politics anymore.

He clearly isn't ready to do that, and it cost him.

WHAT A GREAT MAN! this day is a loss for our country. ... a true conservative. If McCain has any sense and humility in his soul he will offer the Vice Presidency to Mitt Romney....... our country needs him!! Hey CNN ... why didn't you run Laura Ingram's CPAC introduction speech of Romney? It was a fantastic introduction. When I saw you weren't going to televise it, I immediatly turned to FOX WHERE THEY DID and from now on I know where I can find full coverage!!

Good Riddance!!! Mitt was nothing but a shallow flip-flopping opportunist. A McCain / Clinton contest will be a real debate between moderates (as most of the country counts themselves), and the extremists of both parties will, at long last, be marginalized, as they should be.

surrender to terrorism? admit defeat? what's Romney smoking?? glad to see him go - he never met an issue he couldn't flip on and has not an original idea in his head. and as for the guy who said he voted the party, not the person - grow up and learn to think for yourself! you sound like a totalitarian-state robot. oh wait - you're a Republican, so that is exactly what you are.

WOW!!! This primary season is sureal.

I'm not shocked, it just confirms his good judgment and intelligence and concern for the Republican party and what we stand for. What a difference between him and Huckabee! I'm heartbroken that we won't get him elected in 2008 ... but hopefully he will run again at next opportunity!!! God bless you, Mitt!

He suspended his compaign because he could not mathematically win not because of Hilary or Obama.His attempt at being a martyr on the altar of conservatism is very easy to see through.
Huckabee is still in and it just demonstrates you do not have to change your stripes or spend millions to get the vote, you will still stop short, and in 4 yrs, if he attempts again, he still would not succeed.

As a Republican, I am happy that Mitt Romey is out.

And as a Republican, I will voting Demorat for the first time in over 30 years!

“I vote the party, not the person.”

That last line is everything you ever needed to know about what's wrong with all represenative systems of Government. George Washington was right about party polictics. As we head towards November, it ever more seems like we truely are just rearranging the deck chairs on the Titanic.

“I vote the party, not the person.” – Shouldn't it be the other way around? I guess as an Independent voter, I just don't understand blind partisanship. The right answer rarely comes from one viewpoint.

This wasn't honorable, it was about losing money..

Ah, Mitt Romney, one can't help but smile. The so-called johnny-come-lately "conservative," the flag waving Republican, who predicts that if Hillary or Obama are elected, we will be over-run by terrorists, "of this I have no doubt." It is for that reason I will NOT vote for a conservative.

I vote the party and not the person, but unfortunately Senator McCain is not a republican.

nice to see that Mitt left on a positive note (see quotes below). These quotes are totally ridiculous but unfortunately not a surprise. The Republicans only message these days is "BE SCARED". Looks like they'll be running for President on "BE SCARED OF OBAMA/CLINTON". Just be scared. Fear, fear, fear! They are kind of right however. They know either Obama or Hillary will totally spank them in November and turn this country back around. I guess that is a reason to be scared if you're on the right wing fringe b/c it will totally make you irrelevant. Goodbye Mr Romney, though I fear we'll have to watch you pander for more votes again in 2012.

"Barack 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.”

Might as well vote for Barak or Clinton as for McCain!

LOL

So much for choice!

Ron Paul for President!

CNN: You are biased for not giving Ron Paul any air time!

He beat me to it! I wanted to shock Romney supporters. With 10,000 amps. For several hours.

“I vote the party, not the person.”

That's scary.

Awwww... what's Rush going to do now? Like we don't know, he will probably reach for his prozac.

I think it's all about money, Romney does not want to continue depleting his wealth on a wild goose chase of the presidency. It is clear to the sane (this excludes the likes of Glenn Beck, Rush Limbaugh, Anne Coulture etc.) that America does not need another far right extremist after Bush, and that the only hope for the republicans against Barack or Hillary is a moderate. Now let's see Anne vote for Hillary, and she better do it in the primaries because she may not have the opportunity to do it in November at the rate things are going Hill and Bill.

Only a faction of the republican party mainly the country club crowd will lose sleep over Mitts exit, I think the moderates and the social conservatives have won over the country club extremist.

I really dislike Romney's scare tactics of "attacks" on America. Give me a break.

Romney is too good for America. We deserve who we elect.

Romney was the only candidate that actually had a clue how to help America's economic problems. If McCain wins he will be too focused on Iraq to even do anything to help out his own country. Once the Iraq conflict is over we will be stuck with a president who knows nothing about running the American economy. If it turns out to be a Clinton vs. McCain presidential race it is gonna be a sad election year. McCain's only hope would be to nominate Romney for VP so he could focus on helping America while McCain is playing war.

The very last line of this article is exactly what is wrong with politics in this country today. "I vote the party, not the person". As long as people continue to conduct their political lives in this manner, we will continue to get mediocre representation. If you simply vote the party line, they can put monkeys out there (and let's face it, they have in some cases) and it makes no difference. Our party system has torn this country apart and allowed some pretty paltry people to hold high office.

Sen. McCain will lead the Republican Party to defeat. A 72 year old man vs. Obama. He represents the dogma of the past and does not have much charm. His life story is admirable but like Guiliani, his story is looking back, not forward. I think that the nomination in '08 is not worth the cost and Gov. Romney knows it. As a lifelong Republican (never having missed an election and never having cast a ballot for a Democrat), I believe that there is no Republican candidate that I can support. While I am not allied with the Family Research Council, I agree with Jim Dobson and will not vote. If Huckabee is nominated as Vice President, I will vote for Hillary Clinton.

Romney's exit was as graceless as his campaign. He's getting out to ensure victory against radical jihad? I hope I'm not the only person sick and tired of this "The Democrats are all traitors at heart" routine.

McCain if president will do the same thing Bush did on day 1, go to war with Iran. That's McCain's focus point which will complete the decline of our economy. If you've never been married to someone who served in Vietnam talked to the family members of the soldiers that are serving and have served in Iraq or Afgan. Our government never addressed the problems of the Vietnam veterans just like they aren't addressing the problems of those serving in Iraq. With all respect to our military and their families, we deserve more answers from McCain than are being asked.

He went out on a good note. Very calculated. He's banking on Obama steam-rolling McCain in the general election. Then he feels voters will be primed for him after Obama messes up the country with 4 years of his socialism. Mitt will claim he was the man then and he's even more your man now. He'll claim he already has the conservative base from this election and he'll deem himself the front runner.

Mark my words, this is not the last we've seen of Mitt Romney. I'm keeping my eyes on you, Mitt.

this guy has never done anything for his country or his party. anyone who spends 35 million dollars of his own money to become president has only one motivation. EGO!!

And thus dies any semblense of Conservatism.
Get your fuzzy hats with red stars on the front Comrades!

You are a gentleman, Mr. Romney. We Shall miss you on campaign trail.

Why is he continuing this retoric line? Republicans will not be happy until we have waged war on everyone in the world. The war is in Iraq. Iraq was NOT RESPONISIBLE FOR THE TERROR ATTACKS AGAINST THE USA and not a significant threat to attack in the near future. If anything the war has promoted terrorism against the US. We need to DE-escalate the violent talk and help the Iraqi people to put their contry back together.

Hey, Howard, Mark, Terry, Bill and the rest. Call Limbaugh, Hannity, Colter, O'Reilly and the rest of the "neocon" asylum. McCain's just clinced the GOP nomination and they want Hillary! Here's the solution to all your financial prayers. Pay back that loan and move forward. A buck's a buck. One nagging questions is "How Nuts Is Too Nuts".

Yeah...blame it on the democrats.

Pull up a chair and watch closely now cause this is the way it works with "Big Money." It was cheaper on the long run to pay Romney off and get him out of the way so the field narrows and the GOP can begin defining their candidate. Romney would have continued to create too much internal conflict which makes McCain look like all he can talk about is continueing Bushes war.

Well this is where we see the big money deals if we're watching really close. Romney had the opportunity to recoop a sizable chunk of his pocket money he blew by dropping out now. If he stayed in the race republicans would have to spend an extra $10-20 million keeping McCain strong and avoiding being damaged by his own party opponents. This is where the GOP bellys up to the bar and pays Romney to go home and ol Mitt is pure business..... Cut your loses and take the bag of money to recoop all of your out of pocket expenses and head to the house.

Romney makes it too hard for McCain to think on his feet plus he loses the younger vote because he looks so old beside Mitt. The republicans are playing it smart and narrowing the field will save them much more than if they just paid Romney back every dime he had spent of his own money to get him outta there...

Huckberry better watch out now cause McCain is not worried about him. The GOP will be pouring money on McCain trying to turn him into GOLD and the Huck will be out of his league in contributions within the next two weeks. They will dry up and he will likely go to the house with his tail between his legs and the GOP won't have to pay him a dime because he will have a choice of losing ground everyday with the money hole just getting darker by the minute. Then the GOP will offer the Huck a deal if he bails out and endorses McCain but only if he kicks in his support will he get as sweet of a deal as the Mitt caught today...

Watch out people cause "Big Money" is getting ready to create their candidate for the front page daily as the "Golden Boy." The Dems better get it together and paint him as the war monger who must be getting senile and ready for the rocking chair and his Golden Years if he will buy the garbage Bush has been feeding Americans. Make McCain own his party's pork barrel spending that has devalued the dollar to a dime and created more inflation than we have seen since Gerald R. Ford....

You are a gentleman, Mr. Romney. We will miss you on campaign trail.

Any moron who would say "I vote the party, not the person" should be denied the ability to vote and told not to come back until they develop some common sense.

well cnn, you got what you wanted. you never gave romney even close as much attention as mccain. because you know mccain was more liberal and he would not be that bad for you if he was president. well, now our best shot at a good president is gone. thanks alot cnn

"but ultimately ,'I vote the party, not the person.'"
Which is exactly what's wrong with politics in America today.

Shame on Mitt for saying “in this time of war, I simply cannot let my campaign be a part of aiding a surrender to terror.” What a sad and bitter man. Certainly not someone I would want as President.

Good riddance. The last thing we need is another paranoid fear-monger in the oval office!

From the article: “I vote the party, not the person.”

That's 'cuz you are an ideological fool who grants undeserved loyalty.

It is gratifying to see the most superficial politician leave the field. Romney's cheap shot at Clinton and Obama provided more evidence as to how he would have conducted his campaign for the Presidency. The two Democratic candidates do not intend to leave the field of battle against terrorism. They just intend to fight it smarter and use all the appropriate forces, not just our overtaxed military.

Eh...we've been missing a moderate on both sides of presidential elections for 8 years now. McCain has proven to be more of a moderate so I can say I'm ok with this new news.

Partisan politics is not a way to lead the country.

"but ultimately ,I vote the party, not the person.'"
Which is exactly what's wrong with politics in America today.

You fool! This isn't going to unite the Republican's. My vote now has to go to Obama. I pray he wins the nomination. McCain v. Hillary? I think I just threw up a little in my mouth.

Give me a break. He didn't do it for the party – he did it for his pocketbook. How many tens of millions of his own money did he spend? He's not stupid.

"Romney represented conservative values better than anyone else in the race, he said, but ultimately “I vote the party, not the person.”"

And that is what's wrong with this country. Vote for the person, not a party. Find out what a person stands for and get behind that.

For once I agree with Romney – him dropping out is truly the best thing for this country.

“I vote the party, not the person.”

Beliefs like this are what is wrong with politics in this nation. If only the founders would have followed Washington's advice, and never seperated into political parties. As voters, we shouldn't blindly follow a party, just like the people elected to represent us shouldn't blindly follow party lines, but that's a topic for a different thread. I do believe Mitt is dropping out now to remain a viable candidate in a later election. To continue to make a serious try for the nomination would have been very costly, and could inhibit trying again.

What a loser. And he goes out with yet another ignorant comment that shows he has no understanding about the war on terrorism, as opposed to the misguided war in Iraq. Obama or Clinton will go after Bin Laden with a vengeance and not let our dwindling resources (thanks to Bush's idiocy) waste away in Iraq.

Mitt says he's dropping out because Clinton or Obama will end the war and we can't have that happen. War must go on and on and on and on.....it's good for the economy, right Mitt?

" I vote the party, not the person" to quote the Romney supporter.
ALL Republicans will now rally around McCain. Romney will probably be the VP, or Huckabee.

The Republicans have been behind the big push for Obama. It has been the strategy all along. I believe Obama did as well as he did in the primarys because a lot of Republicans voted for him to help create the momentum.

'Divide and conquer ' is why the Republicans defeat the Democrats.

I know all the Obama supporters are going to freak out, and there will be a bunch of posts from "Republicans" who are crossing over to support Obama.
"so inspired by his message of hope"
Keep drinking the Kool Aid.

This was an economic decision for him. He was no longer willing to continue to drain his personal fortune on a lost cause. Had he not largely self-financed his campaign up to this point, he never would have been a serious contender.

the final flip flop from someone who has taken every side on every issue. the republicans dont deserve anything at this point. i guess you can say he cut and ran.

LIAR LIAR LIAR and a sore loser.. dont try to scare people with terrorist...there are real issues that need to be resolved in this country other than fighting some stupid war

Mitt Romney has followed the honourable lead of John Edwards and rightly stepped down for the betterment of the party. Betterment not because John McCain is the best candidate, but rather because he will most certainly need time to unite the party well prior to the general election. Unfortunately, Romney's departure would not have been necessary had Mike Huckabee done the right thing prior to Super Tuesday.

Mitt lied. He said he would continue the campaign on Tuesday night even when he understood the position he'd fallen into and the lack of outside funds going forward. I guess I'm forced to realize that he was a flip-flopper all along and would say anything to get elected. Mitt is all about himself, not the country, not the people and not the good folks that supported him. Unless he moves to Utah, he'll never again be trusted in another run for office. Good riddance, now I can find a genuine candidate who cares enough to fight for principles and not just his own fame.

Goodbye Mitt. It wasn't nice to know ya.

And thus ends the creepiest campaign in America's political history. Good bye sir, you will always be remembered for your hairdo, your money, your xenophobia, and your endless flip flopping.

I saw his speech to CPAC. Hopefully, we've reached a time where a minority–such as the radical right–will finally return to their proper place in the political arena–one of many viewpoints each of which deserves recognition and consideration. A second benefit may be that they finally live up to what they pretend to believe-a balanced budget rather than bringing poverty to the future generations; a judicial viewpoint which allows for original interpretation, including those they don't like; true Christian beliefs of treating all people as equal–not just the vested wealthy!

It'll be more likely that Democrats take the white house? That doesn't even make any sense...

Why can't Romney just say you have no chance? Even as Romney suspends his campaign, he still couldn't tell the truth to the American people? No wonder why he lost.

The truth is, everyone knows Romney is insincere and fake. He's also the worst business man. $100 million and can't even keep up to Huckabee? Please...

While it is true that Hillary or Obama would kick his tail, there's no chance he would have been the nominee anyway. I just don't get his statements.

So now McCain has many months to explain how the democrats are going to hand over the country to the terrorists and anyone who doesn't believe in the war, including independants and moderate republicans, are traitors to this country. This so the right wing will love him...

Yeah, he's got the general election sewn up...

I am not surprised he pulled out, he had no chance of winning. I am disappointed that he feels the need to wrap this in a patriotic or conservative cloak,it is dishonest.He could not win,so he got out,what does that have to do with Hilary or Obama. Throughout the debates, he was attacking McCain and everybody else, he is just a sore loser and I can see why all his opponents on the Republican side dislike him as well

Quote: “in this time of war, I simply cannot let my campaign be a part of aiding a surrender to terror.”

Mitt, lest we forget, it was the Republicans who allowed the largest attack on our country to happen in the first place.

God bless you for suspending your campaign; He didn't want you there anyway...

Any moron who says "I vote the party, not the person" should have their voter registration revoked and told to come back when they have some common sense.

Another phony bites the dust.
Next that would do us a favor by leaving would be Clinton. Like Romney, with the Clintons, tt's all about them.
And like Romney they would do anything and say anything just to "win". They learned from Karl Rove all too well. The country is finally tired of phonies.

Oh here we go with the "fear tactics". Didn't we already call out Bush on this?!? WE NEED CHANGE!!!!

I am disappointed but I think Romney makes a valid point re: the Democrats and war -I too think it's honorable.

I would just hope that the "Huckster" is not chosen as a running mate – and wonder if there's any way that Romney would be chosen. I don't care for McCain's philosophy, and I think his age is a real factor, but I absolutely will not vote for McCain if the "Huckster" is his mate – I absolutely detest him and am scared that should something happen to McCain, he would succeed.

I appeal to all Romney supporters to join Ron Paul revolution to restore the Constitution.

We welcome those borderlin constitutionalists to come on over to the Ron Paul Revolution and join a team that will not run from the field!

Another one bites the dust, just 2 more to go....... Ron Paul 2008!!!!

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

Despite numerous intelligent statements to the contrary, the GOP continues to insist that Iraq and the war on terror are inextricably linked. While we're devoting all our economic and military resources overseas, our borders and ports over here remain exposed. It's time the public sees through this ruse and vote into power leaders who will be more judicious with how our defense dollars are spent.

"I vote the party, not the person"

People like this are what got us in the mess we are in now. Call yourself what you want, democrat, republican, independent, green.... but voting straight ticket just because of the letter next to the candidate's name is destructive and unpatriotic.

“I vote the party, not the person.”

And this is something to be proud of?
Isn't this the mistake that so many republican supporters who thought that George W was a fiscal conservative who are now shocked at how much government spending has skyrocketed under his watch made?
I find it amazing that in the twenty-first century we still have a sizeable amount of people in this country that will walk into a voting booth and vote straight ticket with little to no thought.
I have a hard time believing that this is what democracy is supposed to be.

Can Obama do the same for the sake of his party?

Now its time for the Huck to step aside in order for republicans to come to the reality of who there party is running in this election. there is every reason for Huck to do the right thing for his party as Romney stated were his reasons for stepping aside. Lets run what we brung and get on with it Republicans !

The suggestion that a Democratic administration would somehow enable terrorists is proof enough that this moron (Romney) does not belong in the White House.

Oh my goodness,,,now what are Rush, Sean, and Ann amongst other far right conservatives going to do? They certainly can't throw support behind Hillary or Obama.....they all claim to HATE John McCain and Huckabee, seeing he was the only one to even show up at an African-American given function this year really has to be far too liberal for them also. Well maybe they can wake up and smell the coffee and see that being a moderate isn't all that bad. The far right hate mongers and the neo cons can either deal with this, start a third party, or throw Ol' Ralphie out there again to muck everything up.

". . . but ultimately 'I vote the party, not the person.'"

This is what's wrong with America.

Wow. What an honorable man. To hang on would have been undignified to him.

As long as Obama continues to go strong and wins McCain is dead on arrival due to his strong pro-war views as well as the fact that he is just as stubborn as Bush if not more so. Not to mention the increased probability that he as President would take military action in accordance with his Constitutional authority to do so. The end result would be even more instability in the Middle East and the strong probability of impeachment proceedings against him.

So which is worse? A supposed Republican who very well could get himself impeached and further hurt the Republicans reputation. Or someone like Hillary or Obama who has the chance to make a mess of Iraq and screw up the American economy and damage the Democratic parties reputation? Because no matter who you get for president their is a whole lot of potential for further division in this country as well as continued problems.

Bigotry and Back Door deals have combined to take Mr. Romney out of the race.

Americans are so stupid that they do not deserve to have a leader like Mitt Romney.

When the economy falls at the hands of Can't Run my Own Campaign McCain or tax and spend Clinton, just remember that the bigotry of the south and McCain's partnership with Huckabee brought our only hope down.

Expect to see Huckabee drop out and take on McCain's VP role soon.

Surrender to terror? You cut-and-run loser!

Please, keep up with your Karl Rove tactics. America has had enough and it'll just make it that much easier for Democrats.

"“I vote the party, not the person.”"

That is why politics should be left to people, not sheep! As they learned in Germany and the U.S.S.R., "THE PARTY" is not always right, nor does it always have the best interest of the people it's supposed to represent at heart! Power for the sake of having it, is more often a losing proposition than a winning one. Look at what the past 7 years has brought this country! These people are not Americans...they are flock animals!

So now are choices are McCain or Huckabee?

More accurately Sargent Carter or Gomer Pyle !!!!

Very Unfortunate. I will vote for Obama, given the choice between McCain and the Democrats.

A flip-flopper and a quitter. Just who we want for president.

Romney showed his true colors, going gets tough, and he quits. Great pick Rush!

*waves* Bye-bye! =)

Obama '08 all the way!

Mitt, it was nice not knowing you. Goodbye, tool.

GREAT! Now all Clinton has to do is bow out and we'll be good to go. We could get rid of both people trying to buy their way to the presidency at once!

(and the haters pile on...)

Maybe Hillary should think of what's best for the country and not just what's best for her as well.

And now it's 3!
Go RP!

Great speech Mitt.

The 4-year prison sentence begins. Conservatives have no other choices in this election.

Good job dems, you won this year! We won't be voting for McCain.

So now are choices are McCain or Huckabee?

More accurately Sargent Carter or Gomer Pyle !

Romney please stuff it. The Democrats will no more "surrender to terror" than McCain will. What they might not do is launch more useless wars against targets that have / had nothing to do with the "war on terror" to begin with.

I'm really sick of these candidates that try to beat you over the head with a bible while appealing to the worst aspects of humanity.

mccain has never been a part of the Republican party and never will be, so we won't cast a vote for him, Better not to Select a Presidential candidate at all . Than Kennedy's side kick

It is honorable that Romney has stepped aside but how dare they boo John McCain? These people are idiots.

Wow, I am shocked! I do not see McCain as a viable alternative for my vote. I decided after the last election (Bush/Kerry) that I would not vote for the lesser of two evils. This leave Obama as the only viable candidate for a forward thinking republican to consider, and that makes me sad.

Look folks. If CNN post this response or comment, you surely have learned Romney is nothing more than an anti-south bigot who can be a spoiled brat sometimes when he does not get his way.

And then there were three!

Fine, one less GOP hardliner to deal with. I'm tired of this nonsensical rhetoric of "victory" and "defeat." There is neither in Iraq; there is only a continuing quagmire that sucks out the blood of our military servicemembers and the tax money of our citizens.

The war must end, and the Democrats will make it happen.

thank you Mitt Romney for offering your service to our nation

Good Riddance.

Go McCain!!! A real maverick conservative like Ronald Reagan!

Wow!!! A candidate that puts his Country's future ahead of his own. McCain and Huckabee need to learn from this lesson in civics. He (Romney) is absolutely right in times of war we cannot sound the horns of retreat. We are not Frenchmen. Now if only Huckabee had the common sense to do the same.
McCain may not have been my first choice and I also disagree with him in many areas, but to hand this country over to the Left wing of the Democratic Party would be a disaster for the United States and freedom loving people of the world. I urge all Republicans and conservative Democrats to get behind McCain at this crucial junction in the life of our country.

Two of the dumbest things I have read in awhile:

“Barack 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.”

And:

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!

AND YES WE WILL!

OBAMA '08

WHY!!!!!???? Romney was the best candidate!

Sorry to see this, Romney was a good candidate, Guess we now will all support Ron Paul.
Never, never,never will we ever vote for insane mccains, and huck who is tied now to his hip.
Mitt , sorry to see you leave the race. We thought you were sincere and had more knowledge about the economy and running the government of all the Repubs running,
We don't count Insane Mccain as any thing but a Liberal Democrat. he's tied to old man Killer Kennedy

HA! Good, go back to your crazy Mormon family & church...Buh-Bye creepy guy!

Bye Mittens!

Mitt, the post for Mormon church president is still vacant. You can be the next prophet.

oh, what a suprise. this guy changed his mind so many times, it made me dizzy. now the real loser emerges.