Melissa Howard Drops Out of Fla. Race After Fake Diploma Incident

Melissa Howard, a GOP candidate for the Florida Legislature, who falsely said she had a college degree from Miami University, has dropped out of the race, the Herald-Tribune newspaper is reporting.

“I have come to the realization that the right thing to do for my community is to withdraw from the race,” she told the newspaper.

“I made a terrible error in judgment. I am thankful for everyone who gave so much toward my success, and I am deeply sorry.”

Howard last week posted a photo of herself with what looked like a Miami University diploma after being accused of lying about her degree. The Ohio university later sent reporters a statement saying she attended the school, but never graduated and the diploma Howard posted has inaccuracies.

Howard’s name will still appear on the ballot. However, Sarasota County Supervisor of Elections Ron Turner said there will be notes at polling locations — telling people that a vote for Howard will not count, the Herald Tribune said.

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