Michael Avenatti drops out of 2020 presidential race after family begs him not to run

Attorney Michael Avenatti won't be running for president in two years after his family urged him to reconsider.

The attorney has been plagued by scandalous accusations in recent weeks, and he decided to drop out of the 2020 race after talking with his family.

"I do not make this decision lightly -- I make it out of respect for my family," Avenatti said. "But for their concerns, I would run."

Avenatti said he would continue to represent former porn actress Stormy Daniels in her lawsuit against President Donald Trump, who he said could only be defeated by a "fighter."

"I remain concerned the Democratic Party will move toward nominating an individual who might make an exceptional President but has no chance of actually beating Donald Trump," he said.