Republican Tim Scott drops out of US presidential race

“I think the voters, who are the most remarkable people on the planet, have been really clear that they’re telling me: ‘Not now Tim,’” Mr Scott, 58, said in an interview with Fox News, announcing he has suspended his White House bid.

The revelation came as a shock to campaign staffers, who were apparently unaware of the decision.

The South Carolina Senator launched his campaign less than six months ago with the promise of offering a more optimistic, forward-looking future for America.

Recent opinion polls have shown him failing to gain traction and establish a lane for himself in a relatively crowded field, despite millions spent on the campaign on behalf of high-profile donors.

The Republican is the second major candidate to leave the race since the end of October, following Mike Pence’s withdrawal.

Former Vice President Mike Pence suspended his campaign two weeks ago – underlining his scandal-embroiled previous boss Donald Trump’s dominance of the Republican Party.

Mr Trump is facing four criminal indictments and numerous felony counts.

Mr Scott, who is the only black Republican serving in the Senate so far hasn’t endorsed any of his rivals.

“The voters are really smart. The best way for me to be helpful is to not weigh in on who they should endorse,” he said.

He also said he has no intentions of pursuing a vice-presidential nomination.

‘Being vice president has never been on my to-do list for this campaign, and it’s certainly not there now.”

His exit may serve as a boost for other candidates attempting to dislodge M4 Trump from the top spot as current front runner.

Mr Scott’s withdrawal leaves Donald Trump, Nikki Haley, Vivek Ramaswamy Ron De Santis and Chris Christie in the race for 2024 US presidency.