Jane Swift in The Associated Press

On Principles & Values: Bows out of governor’s race, citing family concerns

Swift tearfully and unexpectedly bowed out of the governor’s race, clearing the way for Mitt Romney to focus on defeating Democrats - instead of a primary challenger. “I believe that this is in the best interest of our state, as it will allow the Republican party’s best chance of holding the governor’s office in November,” Swift said, her voice choking with emotion.

The announcement of Romney’s entrance into the GOP race for governor had been anticipated for weeks, and Swift’s popularity suffered with each poll taken. Still, until recently, she said she welcomed a challenging campaign. Many of her staff did not know until Tuesday about her decision.

A Boston Herald poll on Sunday showed Romney leading Swift 75 percent to 12 percent.

“Having said early on the time with family was non-negotiable, something had to give,” Swift said. She plans to serve out her term until the end of the year.

Source: John McElhenny, Associated Press Mar 19, 2002

The above quotations are from Columns and news articles distributed by the Associated Press. Click here for other excerpts from Columns and news articles distributed by the Associated Press. Click here for other excerpts by Jane Swift. Click here for a profile of Jane Swift.
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Page last updated: Feb 15, 2019