Janice R. Andrews
But even with the state’s substantial group of independent voters, who were thought to be inclined to support Ms. Haley, she was unable to completely bridge the significant gap between herself and the outgoing president.
Haley surrogate Katon Dawson, a former South Carolina Republican party chairman, stated, “Nikki put in the time, put in the work, and put in the money.” “With that said, Donald Trump is an 800 pound gorilla that has his arms around the base.“
Some stated that while they personally loved her, they would continue to support Mr. Trump no matter what.
After finishing third in the Iowa Caucuses behind Trump and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, Haley was the only contender left after DeSantis withdrew. Tuesday night at a Concord election night party, Haley announced her defeat in New Hampshire, congratulating Trump and reaffirming her intention to pursue her candidature in her own South Carolina.
Haley said, “This race is far from over,” to applause from the crowd. “There are still numerous states to be covered. My lovely state of South Carolina is the next one.”
Polls show that Haley is lagging behind Trump in South Carolina, despite her strong ties to the state. In response to Haley’s capitulation, Trump criticised her, calling her “delusional” and casting doubt on her win assertion.
Team Haley swiftly retaliated, labelling Trump’s statements as a “furious and rumbling rant.” Haley has been critical of Trump before, but in the last few days, she has been more direct in her criticism, raising concerns about his connections to “dictators,” calling into doubt his mental stability, and denouncing his “lies.”
It appears that Haley’s last-minute efforts paid off, as two-thirds of those who cast ballots in the closing days chose to support her. Still, she was unable to close the sizable difference between herself and Trump, even with the state’s sizable independent voter bloc, which was thought to be more supportive of her candidature.
Some supporters showed persistent support for Trump despite his likeability, citing worries about Haley’s policies and the seeming lack of endorsement from influential South Carolina Republicans.
Haley has decided not to participate in the forthcoming Nevada caucuses, and many believe that her candidature could collapse if she loses the South Carolina primary on February 24. Renowned Republican strategist Ron Bonjean declared, “Trump is going to close the nomination early because the momentum is shifting in his favour very quickly.” These days, doubts are scarce.”
The historical precedent that no Republican contender has ever won the first two states and then failed to win the Republican nomination presents Haley with an additional difficulty.
