Lawyer, businessman, and Republican strategist Ford O'Connell announced Thursday he's suspending his campaign for Florida's Congressional District 19.
The frequent Fox News, Fox Business, and Newsmax TV contributor cited the current coronavirus outbreak as a leading factor in his decision.
"After much thought and careful consideration, it is with a heavy heart I announce that I have decided to withdraw my candidacy for the FL-19 U.S. congressional seat," he said in a statement.
"We are in the midst of a global pandemic. Lives are at stake. The time for action is now. As a result of the Chinese coronavirus outbreak, we cannot run the type of campaign we wanted to run; one where we go to local events and meetings, schools and libraries, museums and restaurants, and speak to voters."
The pandemic also played a role into how he'll distribute on-hand campaign funds.
"To that end, I have decided to donate a portion of my campaign funds to the Harry Chapin Food Bank of Southwest Florida, and to the American Red Cross to assure our friends and neighbors are taken care of during this difficult and uncertain time."
The Sunshine State's CD-19 takes in much of Southwest Florida.
"I owe a debt of gratitude to my fiancée, Sarah, my family, my dedicated campaign staff, my friends and supporters; to everyone I spoke with over the past several months who shared their story, their concerns, their humanity — to each and every one of you — thank you. I am humbled by your support and by your belief in me and in what we stand for," he said.
"We fought a good fight, and we should all be incredibly proud of that. Now, we turn our battle to a new horizon; one with much higher stakes and that will in the coming days and months impact us all. Stay safe. Stay strong. Together, there is nothing America can't do. While this campaign has reached its end, know that I'm not done fighting for you, for Southwest Florida, and for our great nation."
O'Connell is a strong conservative who considered the re-election of President Donald Trump a major issue of his campaign.
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