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The intensity of the 2024 presidential election continues to pick up. Next Wednesday, Republican contenders who qualify for the third debate will gather in Miami to hash out issues facing our country.

Each contender is currently working to make the case to GOP voters that they should secure the nomination and go on to face Joe Biden in the general election.

Thus far, qualifying candidates for next week's debate include Nikki Haley, Ron DeSantis, Chris Christie, and Vivek Ramaswamy. While former President Trump also qualifies, he's highly expected to skip the approaching debate, just as he did during the previous two.

With days left until GOP hopefuls convene again, the field of candidates has narrowed. Just yesterday, former Vice President Mike Pence took the liberty of terminating his campaign.

What to know about Pence's departure from the 2024 presidential election

Pence's exit from the race comes as he struggled to meet the qualifications to debate with other Republicans in Miami.

Hence, on Saturday, October 28, the former vice president confirmed his decision to step back. During a speech before the Republican Jewish Coalition, Pence stated he currently sees that his time to be president is not now.

As a result, the former vice president announced he's departing the race. At the same time, Pence also expressed his hope that GOP voters will pick a nominee who can lead in a civil manner and appeal to America's "better angels."

So far, it does not appear as though Pence plans to endorse Trump, despite previously working under him.

America's reactions to Pence's decision

Pence's departure remains widely viewed as the beginning of a pattern for low-polling GOP contenders. Many Americans believe Republicans who do not qualify for the third primary debate will drop out sooner rather than later.

On social media, DeSantis lauded Pence for his "principles" and wished him the best going forward. Likewise, Haley spoke highly of the former vice president and his steadfast support for both Israel and the United States.

As more GOP contenders drop out of the race, time will reveal which remaining candidates their supporters decide to get behind.