New York, NY —

Mayor Bloomberg spoke publicly for the first time yesterday about his decision to drop out of the Republican party and go unaffiliated. He blamed partisan politics for placing party dedication over the needs of voters.

REPORTER: In case you thought he was being shy, he says now he can speak freely about national issues like the gun control and healthcare. He says the US spends 50% more that Western Europe on healthcare and yet, Americans still have shorter life spans.

BLOOMBERG: We have roughly 10 Republicans and 10 Democratic candidates and I think that's what they should address and I'm gonna speak out on those issues. And by not being affiliated with a party, I think I'm gonna have a better opportunity to do that.

REPORTER: Bloomberg says his decision to leave the Republican party doesn't mean he wants to run for president.