This was the right thing to do. The temptation is always to hang on too long, in the hopes of a miracle turnaround that never happens. By dropping two months before Iowa, Scott spares himself embarrassment, and, more important, avoids being any kind of spoiler. If the race stays like it is now, it won’t matter, but if it eventually gets closer, his 7 percent in Iowa could matter.

His campaign obviously never took off. It was hobbled by his lack of a rationale or distinctive issues, and his Senate-speak when discussing policy. But he’s a talented communicator and winsome man whose faith in America is deep and sincere. He has much to contribute even if, as he has recognized, it’s not as a candidate in this campaign.