Mitt Romney postponed the expected launch of his campaign for U.S. Senate on Wednesday as a result of the Florida school shooting that left 17 people dead.
Romney had planned to announce his candidacy in a video scheduled for release Thursday morning, followed by a speech Friday night at the Utah County Republican Party's annual fundraising dinner in Provo.
It was not immediately clear whether Romney would still be making his Friday night appearance after canceling Thursday's announcement.
Romney, the Republican presidential nominee in 2012, is strongly favored to win the U.S. Senate seat of Utah Republican Orrin Hatch, who is not seeking re-election.
Romney tweeted: "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.
"Out of respect for the victims and their families, I will not be making an announcement tomorrow about the Senate race."
