Nevertheless, Pence’s struggles persisted in Iowa, and his fundraising efforts faced hurdles as well.
Despite having established relationships with donors over the years, Pence found himself with only $1.18 million in the bank and $621,000 in debt at the end of September, according to his latest campaign filing. His financial challenges would have posed a long-term burden, given his lack of substantial personal wealth.
The shadow of Donald Trump loomed large over Pence’s campaign, with Trump maintaining a commanding lead in the race for the 2024 Republican nomination. Some close to Pence expressed concerns that continuing as a candidate could tarnish his standing within the party.
However, the conflict between Hamas and Israel in October briefly rekindled Pence’s sense of purpose and allowed him to reframe his campaign narrative around foreign policy and “voices of appeasement” among Republicans. But the new direction did not pick up traction.
Exiting the Race
Pence formally exited the race in Las Vegas with an announcement at the Republican Jewish Coalition event.
