With Columbus Mayor Michael Coleman dropping out, and U.S. Rep. Ted Strickland emerging as the front-runner, "what purpose does my running now serve?" Springer said in a statement released by his Ohio spokesman, Dale Butland.

"We have a candidate and a wonderful opportunity for party unity. Let's not blow it. Accordingly, I believe it would be irresponsible, divisive, and a betrayal of principle for me to jump into the race at this late stage," Springer said.