Rick Perry first major candidate to drop out of 2016 presidential race

On Friday, former Texas Gov. Rick Perry announced he will drop out of the race for presidency, ending his second bid for the Republican nomination.

The GOP candidate announced in St. Louis that his campaign has come to an end, becoming the first major candidate of the 2016 campaign to give up on the ticket to the White House.

"Today I am suspending my campaign for the presidency of the United States," said Perry, adding, "It has been a privilege for me. It has been an honor to travel this country, to speak with the American people about their hopes and dreams."

Perry's campaign had long been struggling, but despite leaving the race, he encouraged other candidates to take control. 

"Let’s roll up our sleeves. Let’s get to work. Let’s make America, America again," said Perry. "We can be the America we know in our hearts we are meant to be."