From The Road
January 29, 2008 11:27 PM

Placing Third in Florida, Giuliani Begins Withdrawal

By
Ryan Corsaro
Topics
Rudy Giuliani
(CBS)
From CBS News' Ryan Corsaro:

ORLANDO, FLA. -- There were tears, strong handshakes and parting embraces tonight as campaign supporters watched their leader, former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani, give what is expected to be one of his final speeches as a Republican presidential candidate.

Giuliani placed third tonight in Florida's GOP primary, which was pivotal in his strategy to gain future momentum in this election.

Speaking alongside his wife Judith, Giuliani thanked his staff and the Americans who stood by his message, but did not formally announce a withdrawal from the race.

"Aggressive fighting for the right is the noblest sport the world affords," said Giuliani as he took the stage, quoting former president Theodore Roosevelt.

"Elections are about a lot more than just candidates. Elections are about fighting for a cause larger than ourselves."

CBS News has confirmed that Giuliani will travel to California tomorrow, where he will drop out and endorse John McCain, the winner of tonight's primary.

He called each of his Republican opponents "accomplished servants and good men."

"Even Ron Paul," said Giuliani, smiling.

Giuliani's lack of attacks against his rivals might have suspended attention to his campaign message in recent weeks, but he maintained the belief to stay positive was the right decision.

Giuliani dedicated his campaign the memories and examples set by firefighters, law enforcement and first responders he has met throughout his career, including ones who lost their lives when answering the call of duty on September 11th, 2001.

"The future of our nation is in good hands, because it's in your hands."

Add a Comment
by nomoretaxes-2009 January 30, 2008 6:36 PM EST
I am a very strong supporter of Ron Paul and have always disagreed with most of what Rudy stood for and said. But when I watched his withdrawal speech I was stunned at his grace and true courage. When he mentioned Ron Paul and acknowledged that he had won all of the debates I was floored. Some may say that it was said in jest. But there is an old saying that goes " Many a truth is said in jest." I have a new found respect for him that I never would have believed would happen.I actually felt a little sad to see him go. I still would not like to see him become president but I would like to shake his hand and say thank you for his honesty and courage.
All that being said, the reason that I am writing should be obvious. Ryan when you quoted Rudy on his comment about Ron Paul why did you only give half of that sentence and leave out the most important and newsworthy part? The complete quote is " Even Ron Paul who won all of the debates".
Ryan you are part of the wide spread blantant media bias that has not given Ron Paul fair and equal exposure. It makes me sick to my stomach that the American people can not have an open, honest and fair election because of the dishonest games that the media is playing. The American people deserve to hear the news in a fair and honest way without bias.
Richard N Stone
Talmo, Ga.
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