The former Governor of Wisconsin Tommy Thompson announced last Sunday night that he will not pursue his bid for Presidential nomination. Sources that are close to the former governor said that Thompson was dismayed by the results of the Ames Republican straw poll held last Saturday. Results of the straw poll showed that Thompson was trailing way behind the other candidates. Sources said that Thompson expected to finish second in the straw poll and was dismayed when he ended up in the sixth place. Given the low turn-out of votes in his favor, Thompson decided to bow out of the race early.
In a written statement issued by Thompson to the press, he said "I want to thank the people of Iowa who were welcoming and supportive as well as my volunteers and contributors from around the country." Thompson later on said in a speech that there is no sense in looking back and that he simply must accept his loss and move on. He said that he must respect the will of the voters. Thompson explained that he can still serve the American people even if he does not become president. He said that although he is leaving the presidential race, he is not giving up his commitment to improve the health care and welfare of the American people.
Before running for the presidential nomination under the Republican Party, Thompson has been elected governor of Wisconsin four times. He was considered as one of the best Governors that Wisconsin had for many years. Aside from being Governor of Wisconsin, Thompson serves Secretary of Health and Human Services.
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