Following the New Hampshire primary, the political world has been abuzz with speculation about when Nikki Haley would suspend her campaign. The question came from GOP leaders and political pundits alike, as former President Donald Trump continued to dominate the race. Haley, however, remained steadfast, insisting that her campaign’s fate would be decided on Super Tuesday.
Super Tuesday, a pivotal moment in the primary season, saw GOP voters from over a dozen states, including delegate-rich California and Texas, cast their votes. The results were unequivocal: Trump emerged victorious in nearly all contests, save for Vermont. Hours later, Haley announced the suspension of her campaign, stating, “I said I wanted Americans to have their voices heard. I have done that. I have no regrets.”
Haley’s Historic Run and Future Endorsement
Haley, the first of Trump’s challengers to launch her campaign, also became the last to suspend it. Her 13-month campaign marked a historic moment as she became the first woman to win a GOP primary contest. However, Trump continues his unimpeded march towards a third consecutive presidential nomination.
With her campaign suspended, the question now is whether Haley will endorse Trump. On Wednesday, she refrained from doing so, instead urging the former president to “earn” the votes of those who didn’t support him. Haley’s aim is to foster a dialogue about issues within the Republican Party and promote unity.
Divided Opinions on Trump Endorsement
Leading up to her decision to suspend her campaign, Haley’s team received substantial feedback on whether she should endorse Trump. Sources close to Haley reveal a divide in opinion. Some believe that endorsing Trump would position her as a team player, while others vehemently oppose the idea, arguing it would allow Haley to critique Trump and establish her own political movement.
According to CNN exit polls, only 19% of Haley supporters would be satisfied with Trump as the nominee, while 79% would be dissatisfied. This data suggests that Trump has a significant task ahead in winning over Haley’s supporters.
Unfulfilled Goals and Future Prospects
Haley’s campaign had previously communicated to major donors that Super Tuesday would be the deciding factor in her continued participation in the race. Despite not meeting her target of 40% of the vote in most states, most donors were not surprised by Haley’s decision to suspend her campaign.
As for the future, it’s too early to predict where Haley’s donors will redirect their support. However, Haley’s political journey is far from over. As Katon Dawson, a longtime Haley ally and former chair of the South Carolina Republican Party, said, “This is not the last you’ve seen of Nikki Haley.”
Contributors: Ebony Davis, David Wright and Jennifer Agiesta, CNN