Mike Pence's Presidential Bid Comes to an End

Mike Pence's withdrawal from the Republican presidential nomination race is seen as part of the natural winnowing of the crowded field, according to rivals who believe it could benefit their own chances of challenging frontrunner Donald Trump. Pence's exit may have been influenced by fundraising difficulties. Former New Jersey governor Chris Christie, one of Trump's critics, highlighted Pence's misalignment in supporting Trump while urging the party to turn away from Trump populism. Former US ambassador Nikki Haley is presumed to be the main beneficiary of Pence's exit, with her polling rising and endorsements from Republicans breaking with Trump. However, both Haley and Florida governor Ron DeSantis still trail far behind Trump in national support. Pence's withdrawal also underscores Trump's hold over the party, as former vice-presidents are typically formidable primary challengers, but recent years have seen a weakening of that assumption.