Those Stephen Colbert fans who had hoped that, for once, there would be a political figure on the national stage who would be refreshingly upfront about the parodic and performative nature of his role will be no doubt be disappointed that Colbert has ended his quest for the presidency — at least this time around.

ABC News:

Last week, the South Carolina Democratic Executive Council rejected Colbert’s application to be on the primary ballot in a 13-3 vote; Colbert did not apply to appear on the state GOP primary ballot — with its $35,000 filing fee.

In a statement today, Colbert said, “Although I lost by the slimmest margin in presidential election history — only 10 votes — I have chosen not to put the country through another agonizing Supreme Court battle. It is time for the nation to heal.”

Colbert, who was raised on James Island in Charleston, S.C., filed his application last week with the state Democrats and paid the $2,500 filing fee before the noon deadline. After 30 to 45 minutes of debate and discussion, the council decided to reject his application. His check will be refunded.

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#comedy central#president#south carolina#stephen colbert#strike