Bernie Sanders will no longer speak during the opening night of the Women's Convention, according to a statement he released.
He says he will instead be going to Puerto Rico to deal with the devastation it is experiencing.
"I want to apologize to the organizers of the Women's Convention for not being able to attend your conference next Friday in Detroit," Sanders said. "Given the emergency situation in Puerto Rico, I will be traveling there to visit with San Juan Mayor Carmen Yulin Cruz and other officials to determine the best way forward to deal with the devastation the island is experiencing."
The Women's Convention said in an official statement that it was "unfortunate" that Senator Sanders will no longer be able to join the convention, but the humanitarian crisis in Puerto Rico is a "critical matter."
"We understand his leadership is needed in Puerto Rico and, as always, we deeply appreciate his commitment to communities in need," the statement said. "We look forward to continuing to work with him on issues that impact women and all Americans.
