During his tenure as the Minister of Political, Legal, and Security Affairs, Mahfud MD stated that the position gave him tasks, among others, to ensure that the General Election (Pemilu) runs smoothly and safely. Throughout his term, Mahfud never stated that he would participate in the Presidential Election. With his appointment as the prospective Vice Presidential candidate in 2024, he ensures his readiness to run in the Presidential Election in February 2024.

With full confidence, Mahfud MD invites the community who have been postponing their decision to support him in the upcoming presidential election. "For those who have been delaying their decision because they are waiting for certainty from me, I now declare that I am willing to participate in the contest. Together with Mas Ganjar, I will dedicate all of my knowledge, experience, firmness, and courage that I have strived for to the nation," he said.