RickSantorum.com

Rick Santorum fought hard, he fought well, and he gave voice to a large contingent of grass-roots conservative activists across the country who wanted a candidate who lived the values he preached. He held Mitt Romney’s feet to the fire on health care, challenged Newt Gingrich’s green flirtations and past support for the individual mandate, and took on Ron Paul’s foreign policy extremism. His presence improved everyone else’s game — and that will serve the GOP ticket well this fall, whoever ends up on it.

Thankfully, Sen. Santorum’s daughter Bella has been released from the hospital after being admitted this weekend.

Thanks and prayers to Santorum and his family for their energy and passion and dedication to defending life, prosperity, and the American Dream. With a fraction of the money and air time, Santorum came from nowhere to become the most formidable challenger to Mitt Romney through hard work and faith.

Will update after press conference.

***

Update: Santorum addresses press in Gettysburg with wife Karen and children beside/behind him.

Bella is a “fighter,” “doing exceptionally well.” Weekend was difficult time, time for re-thinking. Recounts decision to enter the race, telling his story of the American Dream, meeting voters and hearing their stories, acknowledging volunteers, families with special needs.

Santorum talks about good times of campaign — sweater vest phenom on Twitter, visiting Minn. manufacturing plant, supporter in pick-up truck, girls who made “Game On” music video.

Miracle after miracle, this campaign was as improbable as any. This wasn’t about my voice. It was about your voices…reflecting hopes of Americans, not just fears.

“Against all odds, we won 11 states, millions of votes…wonderful people of this country who care deeply.”

Campaign is suspended, but “we are not done fighting” for our country…and will defeat Barack Obama, win on Capitol Hill.