ABJ - January 20 - And then there were four.

In the latest twist and turn from the Republican Party race in its bid take down President Barack Obama, Texas Governor Rick Perry has withdrawn from the race.

The move leaves former Governor of Massachusetts Mitt Romney, the perceived front runner, as well as Texas Congressman Ron Paul, former Pennsylvania Senator Rick Santorum, and former Speaker Newt Gingrich to battle for the nomination.

“I have come to the conclusion that there is no viable path forward for me in the 2012 campaign,” Perry announced. “I know when it’s time to make a strategic retreat.”

Upon announcing his campaign suspension, Perry endorsed Gingrich for the nomination, as he believes that the former Speaker is “a conservative visionary who can transform our country.”

Following another poor showing in the second primary (New Hampshire), Perry considering withdrawing from the race but later confirmed that he intended to remain in the race and would campaign in South Carolina. The South Carolina primary will be held January 21.

Yet, Perry continued to receive small support in South Carolina, with the latest rolls reflecting just 4.4 per cent for the Texas Governor, the smallest support of the remaining major candidates. The same poll shows Gingrich in second place to Romney, with 26 and 33.6 per cent, respectively.