‘A Wake-Up Call’: Andrew Gillum Enters Rehabilitation After Hotel Incident

Former Florida Gubernatorial candidate Andrew Gillum (D) is entering rehabilitation following his highly publicized hotel room ordeal.

On Sunday, Gillum released a statement confirming his intent to enter rehab and withdraw from “public facing roles for the foreseeable future.”

Although Gillum didn’t go into detail about the hotel debacle — which took place on Thursday evening — he did admit that it has been “a wake-up call.”

“After conversation with my family and deep reflection, I have made the decision to seek help, guidance and enter a rehabilitation facility at this time. This has been a wake-up call for me,” Gillum wrote in a statement.

Gillum went on to admit that the loss of the governor’s race contributed to his depression and alcohol abuse. He wrote:

“Since my race for governor ended, I fell into a depression that has led to alcohol abuse. I witnessed my father suffer from alcoholism and I know the damaging effects it can have when untreated. I also know that alcoholism is often a symptom of deeper struggles. I am committed to doing the personal work to heal fully and show up in the world as a more complete person.”

He concluded with an apology to his family, friends, and the residents of Florida.

“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,” Gillum said. “I ask that you respect my and my family’s privacy during this time. Thank you.”