WASHINGTON – In response to Gov. Martin O’Malley’s announcement that he is suspending his 2016 bid for president, DNC Chair Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz released the following statement:

“From the moment Governor O’Malley entered this race, he campaigned with heart and with a singular focus on building a better future for American families. And because he campaigned substantively on the issues that matter most to the people – protecting the environment, making college more affordable, growing the middle class, and leveling the playing field for hardworking Americans – he has ensured that the choice on Election Day, regardless of who our nominee is, will be crystal clear. We must elect a Democrat as the 45th President of the United States.

“Gov. O’Malley knows that progress is not inevitable – progress is a choice, and he has the record to show it. As Mayor of Baltimore and Governor of Maryland, O’Malley fought tirelessly for the people he represented, successfully leading the way through crisis, unrest and the worst economic crisis since the Great Depression. And although he is suspending his campaign, I know the Democratic Party will continue to rely on his experience and talents in our unified fight for a better future.

“In the wise words of the great Frederick Douglass that Gov. O’Malley has often used to rally his supporters, ‘we are one, our cause is one, and we must help each other; if we are to succeed.’ The Democratic Party is stronger for his leadership, proud of his campaign, and excited to continue to work together in the months ahead. His voice and energy will be crucial to whoever emerges as our nominee, and we look forward to having him on the campaign trail again in support of our shared ideals.”