Nikki Haley’s bid for the 2024 GOP presidential nomination is gaining traction among some supporters, despite calls from prominent conservatives, including former President Donald Trump, for her to drop out of the race. Nickey Maxey, a longtime supporter from South Carolina, believes Haley can win if she stays in the race, anticipating potential setbacks for Trump. Haley’s strategy involves positioning herself as an alternative in case Trump falters during the election cycle.
Haley’s campaign focuses on accumulating delegates in states where independents can vote in the GOP primary, emphasizing a potential path to victory outlined in a recent memo. Supporters see her as a resilient candidate who gains strength when facing attacks, particularly from Trump and his allies.
During campaign stops, Haley emphasizes her accomplishments as governor, including cutting unemployment, passing strict anti-immigration laws, and implementing conservative policies. She aims to distinguish herself from Trump, highlighting his character and legal troubles. A Quinnipiac University poll suggests that Haley could be more competitive against President Joe Biden, appealing to voters who may be disillusioned with Trump’s unpredictability.
Haley faces challenges within the GOP, with Trump and his allies pressuring her to exit the race. Trump’s campaign has branded her as a “war monger” and weak on immigration. The abrupt exit of Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis from the race may have bolstered Trump’s support, making the competition tougher for Haley.
The campaign’s key battleground is South Carolina, a winner-take-all state where Haley hopes to secure a significant number of delegates. However, recent polls show Trump with a substantial lead, making it crucial for Haley to perform well in upcoming contests.
Haley’s pitch includes questioning Trump’s mental acuity and age, similar to right-wing attacks on Biden. She also focuses on Trump’s ongoing legal challenges as potential vulnerabilities. Advertisements highlight her conservative credentials, addressing issues like immigration and promising to defund sanctuary cities.
The Plan B candidate strategy, where Haley accumulates delegates for a potential alternate candidacy at the GOP convention, is seen as challenging. Some strategists argue that the party is still overwhelmingly loyal to Trump, and Haley may not secure the nomination even if she is the last candidate standing.
Democratic voters participating in the GOP primary could play a role in determining Haley’s fate, as independents and unaffiliated voters supported her in New Hampshire. However, skepticism exists about Democrats actively supporting Haley, given her conservative stances and past policy decisions.
Despite uncertainties, Haley’s campaign plans to stay in the race at least until Super Tuesday on March 5, assessing the landscape after that date. The focus remains on building momentum and narrowing the gap against Trump, with an emphasis on winning over traditional conservatives.
As the campaign progresses, Haley must navigate the complex dynamics within the GOP, address concerns about Trump’s potential return, and convince voters that she is a viable alternative. The path to securing the nomination is challenging, requiring Haley to navigate the intricacies of the primary process and maintain momentum among conservative voters.