Press Conference Transcript: Senator Sam Brownback Ends Presidential Bid
The following is a transcript from Senator Sam Brownback’s speech on Friday, October 19th in Topeka, Kansas when he announced he is ending his presidential bid:
October 19, 2007
Topeka, Kansas
Today I am ending my candidacy for the 2008 Republican nomination for President.
I do so with great love for my country but the recognition that my yellow brick to the White House just cam up short this time.
It has been a fabulous journey for me and my family. So many people have helped us. My faith in the American people has grown. We are a blessed nation with a special mission.
Campaigns are about the future. I believe the person and the Party that offers the most hope and ideas for the future wins. We put forward ideas like a war on cancer, an optional flat tax, a three-state solution in Iraq, a return to family and a view that every human life, everywhere and at every stage is sacred, beautiful, and created in the image of God.
Our ideas haven’t won yet, but neither will they be forgotten. Perhaps they were for too far into the future, yet they remain ideals for an idealistic people.
I love especially the many young people that joined our effort. They are the future and on their idealism and faith, America will remain the “shining city on a hill.”
I leave this stage a better man and hopefully America a better place. I am amazed that a nation so powerful could allow the son of a Kansas farmer to even dream that he could lead it.
To my fellow Kansans, I thank you for the privilege of representing you in the US Senate. I am sorry and I apologize that this run for President has caused me to miss votes. I am back now and look forward to working with all of you to build a stronger Kansas.
Finally, I lament that campaigns too often focus on problems and never enough on how great a nation this is. We are the most powerful nation in the history of mankind…where we are today. And to whom much is given, much is required. Let us move forward humbled by how blessed we are and resolved that our best days are yet ahead.
Thank you and God bless.
