Vivek Ramaswamy, the Indian-American businessman, has announced his withdrawal from the 2024 US presidential race following a disappointing performance in the Iowa Republican caucuses.
Mr. Ramaswamy, who was relatively unknown in political circles when he entered the race in February 2023, drew attention and support from Republican voters due to his strong views on immigration and America-first policies. His campaign strategy closely resembled that of former President Donald Trump, both in tone and policy. Mr. Ramaswamy sought to tap into Trump’s conservative base, which had propelled him to victory in previous elections.
Vivek Ramaswamy quits US Presidential race after Donald Trump wins Iowa Caucus
On the same night, Trump triumphed in Iowa, establishing himself as the Republican nomination frontrunner.
Mr. Ramaswamy, an Ohio native born to immigrant parents from India, emerged as an unexpected contender in a Republican field still dominated by Trump’s name.
However, the tide turned against Mr. Ramaswamy in the final days before the Iowa caucuses, as Trump publicly denounced him, labeling him a “fraud” on his social media platform, Truth Social, and claiming that voting for the Indian-American was voting for the “other side.”
In Iowa, Mr. Ramaswamy finished fourth, receiving approximately 7.7% of the vote.
The Harvard-educated millionaire rose to prominence in right-wing circles with his 2021 bestseller, “Woke, Inc.,” a scathing critique of corporate decisions based on social justice and climate change issues.
Mr. Ramaswamy’s fellow Republican presidential candidates frequently expressed frustration with him during debates, particularly former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley, who remarked, “Every time I hear you, I feel a little bit dumber.”