Former U.S. ambassador to the United Nations John Bolton announced on Thursday that he would not be seeking a Republican presidential nomination in 2016.
Bolton’s announcement was made via a YouTube video posted to his channel and website titled “Ambassador Bolton Announces 2016 Plans.”
Bolton said he’d spent his life “fighting to secure America’s place in a challenging world” and serving his country — something all Americans must be willing to do.
Bolton said he’d initially considered running back in 2013 when he realized national security needed to return to the forefront of the political debate.
“Over the past months I’ve spoken with citizens across America,” Bolton said. “They understand the most important challenge facing our next President is keeping America safe.”
Bolton then announced his decision about his 2016 candidacy.
“As I look forward, I have decided not to seek the Republican nomination for President,” Bolton said. “I believe I can make the strongest contribution to our future by continuing as a clear and consistent advocate for a strong Reaganite foreign policy that values peace through strength.”
However, Bolton said he would remain active.
“While I am not a candidate, I am certainly not going to sit this election out,” Bolton said.
Watch the video below, courtesy of John Bolton’s YouTube channel:
