Las Vegas Sun

March 29, 2024

Nevada Wonk

Donald Trump announces he won’t run for president

More Trump

Steve Marcus

Donald Trump speaks to a group of Republican organizations at the Treasure Island Thursday, April 28, 2011.

When Donald Trump visited Las Vegas last month, his candidacy for president seemed inevitable.

He campaigned to a crowd of almost 1,000 gathered at Treasure Island. He prognosticated his chances of winning.

When a woman at Treasure Island shouted, “Run for president,” Trump responded, “Thank you, darling. I think I’m going to make you very happy.”

Ultimately, he failed to deliver. Trump announced today that he will not run for president.

"Business is my greatest passion, and I am not ready to leave the private sector," he said.

While he led several early presidential polls, Trump's popularity seemed to plummet in recent weeks.

His visit to Las Vegas included a profanity-laced tirade. His outlandish statements began to hurt his Trump brand. And he bristled at the idea of releasing details about his financial empire, a requirement had he launched a bid.

Still, in true Trump fashion, the Donald remained convinced that had he chosen to run, he would have won.

"I maintain the strong conviction that...I would be able to win the primary and ultimately, the general election," he said in a statement.

But Trump fans, don't fear. The businessman and reality television host isn't expected to fade into obscurity. In fact, Trump promised to remain his outspoken self.

"I will continue to voice my opinions loudly and help to shape our politicians’ thoughts," Trump said. "My ability to bring important economic and foreign policy issues to the forefront of the national dialogue is perhaps my greatest asset and one of the most valuable services I can provide to this country."

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