Bloomberg Says He Won’t Run

New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg writes in a New York Times op-ed “I am not — and will not be — a candidate for president.” Thus ends months of speculation on whether the multibillionaire would jump into the race as an independent candidate. Bloomberg writes that he may endorse a candidate who “takes an independent, nonpartisan approach” and “embraces practical solutions that challenge party orthodoxy.” Is he talking about Ralph Nader?

Bloomberg in the New York Times:

I believe that an independent approach to these issues is essential to governing our nation — and that an independent can win the presidency. I listened carefully to those who encouraged me to run, but I am not — and will not be — a candidate for president. I have watched this campaign unfold, and I am hopeful that the current campaigns can rise to the challenge by offering truly independent leadership. The most productive role that I can serve is to push them forward, by using the means at my disposal to promote a real and honest debate.

In the weeks and months ahead, I will continue to work to steer the national conversation away from partisanship and toward unity; away from ideology and toward common sense; away from sound bites and toward substance. And while I have always said I am not running for president, the race is too important to sit on the sidelines, and so I have changed my mind in one area. If a candidate takes an independent, nonpartisan approach — and embraces practical solutions that challenge party orthodoxy — I’ll join others in helping that candidate win the White House.

Read more