Daniels '71 won't seek Republican nomination

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Indiana Governor Mitch Daniels ’71 announced in an email to supporters on Saturday that he would not seek the U.S. presidency in 2012, citing family apprehension.

“The counsel and encouragement I received from important citizens like you caused me to think very deeply about becoming a national candidate,” Daniels said in the email. “In the end, I was able to resolve every competing consideration but one, but that, the interests and wishes of my family, is the most important consideration of all,” he explained.

The email, sent from the address of a close Daniels advisor, ended months of speculation that Daniels — considered by many to be a leading Republican candidate — would enter for the race for the party’s nomination.

Daniels had often referenced the concerns of his family, in particular his wife, Cheri, about the rigors of a presidential campaign. In a statement made available to the Indianapolis Star, Daniels said that, although he was “deeply concerned” about the future of the country, his familial obligations ultimately took priority.

“What could have been a complicated decision was in the end very simple: On matters affecting us all, our family constitution gives a veto to the women’s caucus, and there is no override provision,” Daniels said. “Simply put, I find myself caught between two duties. I love my country; I love my family more.”

In his email, Daniels noted that he recognized how his decision might disappoint his supporters.

"If you feel that this was a non-courageous or unpatriotic decision, I understand and will not attempt to persuade you otherwise,” he said. “I only hope that you will accept my sincerity in the judgment I reached.” He added that he hoped the decision would not end his involvement in national politics.

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Bill Engel '71, a classmate who worked alongside Daniels as a member of College Republicans, said in an email to The Daily Princetonian that he had spent time with the governor last month and that, though Daniels would have made a strong president, he is committed first and foremost to his family.

Daniels’ years as an undergraduate at the University were marked by a noted indictment and conviction in 1970 for marijuana use. He spoke to the 'Prince' in February about the incident, explaining that “justice was served” and that the experience was a “lesson.”

He graduated from the University with a degree from the Wilson School.