Failed presidential bids, Michele Bachmann: Done. John Huntsman: Done. Rick Perry: Done. While the reasons for their premature exits may still be unclear – doggy sunglasses? Too many “oops” moments? – some previous candidates’ presidential campaigns went off the rails at precise moments. Let’s take a look back.

Herman Cain
Campaign: 2012

The former pizza chain CEO’s White House run included an awkward foreign policy gaffe , an economic plan reminiscent of a pizza deal and harassment allegations
John Edwards
Campaign: 2008

The former U.S. senator – whose wife was battling cancer – was in the middle of his second presidential campaign  when he pulled out of the race amid poor primary showings and swirling rumors.
Howard Dean
Campaign: 2004

The six-term governor  lost three early primaries, but a bout of the flu and a microphone helped end his presidential hopes.
Al Gore
Campaign: 2000

The former vice president battled it out with eventual winner George W. Bush in a heated campaign that involved “hanging chads,” the state of Florida  and an unusual outcome.
Ross Perot
Campaign: 1992

The Texas billionaire and independent candidate  at one time led the race before dropping out  unexpectedly.
Gary Hart
Campaign: 1988

The former U.S. senator was making a second run for the White House when he dared reporters  to dig up proof of extramarital affairs.
Michael Dukakis
Campaign: 1988

The former governor  committed his fatal campaign faux pas after accusations that he was too liberal and soft on crime .
Gerald Ford
Campaign: 1976

The Republican president  committed a huge debate gaffe during the campaign , but it was something he did while in office that cost him the election.
Barry Goldwater
Campaign: 1964

The former U.S. senator – often credited as the father of the modern American conservative movement – lost to an incumbent president.