Andrew Gillum Stepping Back From Politics And Entering Rehab Following Miami Hotel Incident

Andrew Gillum announced Sunday that he is entering a rehabilitation facility, saying he had fallen into a depression and alcohol abuse after losing his bid for to be Florida’s governor.

The former candidate’s statement came days after Gillum was found intoxicated in a South Florida hotel Friday along with a male companion where authorities found bags of suspected crystal meth. Gillum denied using any drugs but said he had too much to drink.

Gillum, the former Tallahassee mayor, was not charged with any crime. The Miami Beach police report said Gillum was allowed to leave the hotel for home after he was checked out medically.

Gillum said in his statement Sunday night that he resolved to seek help after conversations with his family and deep reflection, calling the decision “a wake-up call for me.”

“Since my race for governor ended, I fell into a depression that has led to alcohol abuse,” he said, pledging to work to “heal fully and show up in the world as a more complete person.”

He said he would be stepping down from “all public facing roles” at this time.

“I want to apologize to my family, friends and the people of Florida who have supported me and put their faith in me over the years,” he added, requesting privacy for his family.

In an earlier statement after the police report became public, Gillum said that he was in Miami Beach for a wedding and did not use illegal drugs.

“While I had too much to drink, I want to be clear that I have never used methamphetamines,” Gillum, 40, said earlier. “I apologize to the people of Florida for the distraction this has caused for our movement.”

Sending positive vibes to Gillum as he goes through the process of rehabilitation.