"In October 2017, I also met briefly with the chairman of the state GOP and informed him of my decision," according to the statement. "By November 9, the day following the Macomb County Republican Party Lincoln Day Dinner, it was common knowledge among many party grassroots members."

Breslin said the timing of making the party aware was to make sure other potential candidates would have time to prepare and campaign prior to the 2018 convention.

"I consider it a great privilege to serve on the MSU Board," Breslin wrote. "As a trustee, I believe I was elected to serve in a manner that considers the best interests of the university, both over the short term and the long term, and to lead with integrity and to the best of my ability. Given the challenges created by the events surrounding the Larry Nassar matter, a positive consequence of my early decision is the freedom to focus all my efforts on serving this great university without the distraction of the campaign process.”

Breslin is the son of Jack Breslin, who worked for MSU for more than 30 years. The Breslin Center, home of the MSU men's and women's basketball teams, is named after Jack.

Breslin and the other MSU trustees affirmed support for President Lou Anna K. Simon Friday after several calls for her resignation because of how MSU handled allegations against ex-MSU and USA Gymnastics doctor Larry Nassar.

In the statement, which was read by Breslin, the trustees also said they took action by calling Michigan Attorney General Bill Schuette to investigate MSU's handling of the Nassar case.