Romney delays campaign announcement after Florida shooting

Former GOP presidential nominee Mitt Romney said Wednesday night that he will delay his planned Thursday campaign announcement following a deadly shooting at a South Florida high school. 

Romney was set to make an announcement about his expected bid for Senate representing Utah on Thursday.

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However, 17 students were killed Wednesday afternoon in a shooting at the Broward County, Fla., school. 

“As a father and grandfather, my heart aches for the victims of today’s tragic events. My prayers go out to all of the families and loved ones affected by this senseless act of violence,” Romney tweeted. “Out of respect for the victims and their families, I will not be making an announcement tomorrow about the Senate race.”

As a father and grandfather, my heart aches for the victims of today’s tragic events. My prayers go out to all of the families and loved ones affected by this senseless act of violence. (1/2)

— Mitt Romney (@MittRomney) February 15, 2018

Out of respect for the victims and their families, I will not be making an announcement tomorrow about the Senate race. (2/2)

— Mitt Romney (@MittRomney) February 15, 2018

Romney, 70, made his plans known to GOP senators last month, following longtime Utah Sen. Orrin Hatch’s (R) decision to retire. Hatch has named Romney as a “fine” successor and the former presidential candidate would likely be a strong favorite to win in 2018.