Donald Trump Rallies in New Hampshire, Nikki Haley Counters with South Carolina Strength
Donald Trump, seeking the Republican nomination once again, hosted a unity rally in Laconia, New Hampshire, on the eve of the state’s primary, accompanied by former GOP contenders who have endorsed his campaign. Nikki Haley, the only significant challenger remaining, countered with a focus on her native South Carolina, the next primary state.
Trump’s Unity Rally and Endorsements
Trump’s rally featured endorsements from several prominent Republicans, including Senator Tim Scott, Governor Doug Burgum, and entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy. These endorsements underscored the message of unity and the need to coalesce around Trump’s candidacy.
“Now is the time for the Republican Party to come together,” Trump declared amidst enthusiastic cheers, exuding confidence in a resounding victory over Haley in Tuesday’s primary.
However, the rally was not without disruptions, as protestors heckled Trump, leading to their removal from the venue. Notably, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, who withdrew from the race just a day prior, was conspicuously absent from the guest list.
Haley’s Response and South Carolina Focus
Haley dismissed the significance of Trump’s endorsements, labeling them as elitists out of touch with the country’s needs. In an interview with NBC News, she asserted, “I don’t want their endorsements. I want the endorsements of the hardworking people of New Hampshire and South Carolina.”
Haley’s own event in New Hampshire featured an introduction by Governor Chris Sununu, who subtly criticized Trump for embracing the establishment and seeking congressional endorsements.
Haley emphasized her strength in South Carolina, where she served as governor for two terms, and expressed confidence in securing support from the state’s voters.
“I know South Carolinians very well,” Haley stated. “They want you to fight for it. They want you to earn it. They want to see your grit.”
Trump’s Commanding Lead in New Hampshire Polls
Polls conducted in New Hampshire prior to DeSantis’ withdrawal showed a significant lead for Trump in the upcoming GOP primary. InsiderAdvantage reported a 27-point advantage for Trump, with other polls indicating similar margins.
Analysts noted that DeSantis’ withdrawal would likely benefit Trump, with a majority of DeSantis supporters expected to shift their allegiance to Trump.
Haley’s Longshot Chances and Emphasis on South Carolina
Haley’s prospects in New Hampshire appeared dim, with DeSantis’ departure from the race further diminishing her chances. Some estimates suggested that a majority of DeSantis voters would opt for Trump.
Haley acknowledged the challenges but remained optimistic, stating, “I know that the DeSantis voters, they love America and they wanted a new generational leader. And they wanted a conservative that was going to go in there and clean up government. And that’s what we’re going to do.”
Limited Congressional Support for Haley in South Carolina
Despite Haley’s strong ties to South Carolina, only one member of Congress from the state, Representative Ralph Norman, has endorsed her candidacy. Notably, five of South Carolina’s seven representatives, both U.S. senators, and the Republican governor, Henry McMaster, have all endorsed Trump.
Investigation into Fake Robocalls Discouraging Democratic Voting
New Hampshire’s Attorney General’s office launched an investigation into robocalls impersonating President Biden and discouraging Democratic voters from participating in the primary. The calls were denounced as an illegal attempt to suppress voting.
Senator Maggie Hassan Joins Write-In Biden Effort
Senator Maggie Hassan joined volunteers in encouraging voters to write in Biden’s name on the primary ballot, despite the DNC’s decision to disqualify New Hampshire from receiving delegates due to its refusal to move the primary date.
Trump Extends Olive Branch to DeSantis, Retires Disparaging Nickname
After months of criticism, Trump praised DeSantis for running a “great campaign” and described him as a “really terrific person” following DeSantis’ endorsement of Trump. Trump also dropped his disparaging nickname for DeSantis, “Ron DeSanctimonious.”
As the New Hampshire primary approaches, Trump maintains a commanding lead in the polls, while Haley faces an uphill battle. The outcome of the primary will significantly impact the dynamics of the Republican race and the path to the nomination.