Statement by Michele Bachmann on Pawlenty's Decision to Withdraw from the Race for the GOP Nomination

Ames, Iowa — Republican presidential candidate Michele Bachmann has issued the following statement in response to Governor Tim Pawlenty's decision to drop out of the race for the Republican nomination for president:

"This morning I spoke with Governor Pawlenty to express my respect and admiration for him, and to wish him and his family well. Running for the presidency requires enormous self-sacrifice. Governor Pawlenty brought an important voice and ideas to the campaign, and he served the people of Minnesota and our country well. Our party and our country are better as a result of his service and commitment."