Nikki Haley’s political journey is taking an upward turn this autumn.
After serving as South Carolina’s governor for two terms and then as the U.S. ambassador to the United Nations under former President Donald Trump, Haley is experiencing a surge in her bid for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination.
Although Trump continues to hold a dominant position in the Republican field, Haley’s standing has improved both nationwide and in key early voting regions. This boost is largely attributed to her impressive showings in the initial two Republican presidential debates.
“There’s a tangible shift in momentum,” Haley shared with Fox News Digital in a one-on-one discussion after a town hall event in Rochester, New Hampshire.
According to a recent Fox News national survey, Haley managed to increase her support from 5% to 10% within a single month in the GOP nomination contest. She currently holds the third position, trailing behind Trump, who has a substantial lead at 59%, and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, who has 13%.
In Iowa, the first state to hold Republican caucuses, DeSantis maintains his runner-up status. However, Haley has overtaken him in some of the most recent polls in New Hampshire, which conducts the first Republican primary, and in her home state of South Carolina, which is the fourth to cast votes.
“The energy is palpable, be it in Iowa, New Hampshire, or South Carolina,” Haley remarked, referencing her growing traction.
Haley indicated that her ascent in the polls is enhancing her appeal to Republican financiers. She spent a day at a Utah summit organized by Senator Mitt Romney, the GOP’s 2012 presidential candidate, and former House Speaker Paul Ryan, mingling with elite Republican donors.
An insider within Haley’s political circle noted that her discussions with potential supporters have been extremely encouraging.
“There’s a significant interest among donors to contribute to our cause,” Haley acknowledged.
Yet, she stressed her campaign’s dedication, stating, “We’re intensely focused and committed to securing every vote from Iowans and New Hampshirites. We won’t rest until we achieve the same in South Carolina.”
In addition, an independent super PAC that supports Haley, known as Stand for America, is set to infuse an additional $6.6 million in advertising in Iowa and New Hampshire, marking their most substantial promotional endeavor thus far.
Before Haley’s recent climb in the polls, DeSantis was the unchallenged second-placer.
Responding to a query from Fox News about whether the stagnant poll numbers worried him, DeSantis was defiant, asserting, “our strategy is sound.”
Highlighting his extensive campaigning in Iowa during the recent months, where he’s nearing visits to all 99 counties in the state, DeSantis emphasized, “Our on-ground organization and support levels are unprecedented. Success requires persistence and presence.”
“I wouldn’t exchange my position in Iowa with any other contender,” he affirmed.
The DeSantis campaign is also set to allocate a fresh $2 million for ads in Iowa, with plans to begin the campaign next month and continue through the January 15 caucuses, as confirmed by Fox News.
The campaign boasted, “Ron DeSantis is unmatched in his direct outreach efforts to Iowa’s voters.”
During an interview at the Concord Statehouse, just before registering for the New Hampshire GOP primary, DeSantis promised a vigorous campaign in the state.
“We plan an exhaustive campaign, encompassing town halls, house gatherings, and speeches to engage with the electorate here,” he declared.
Earlier in the week, former Texas Representative Will Hurd, whose presidential aspirations were considered a long shot, withdrew from the race and threw his support behind Haley.
When questioned if other candidates facing slim odds should also bow out, DeSantis responded, “Presidential candidates should have a credible route to victory to justify their campaigns.”
He concluded, “Candidates without a viable path should ideally rally around others. However, the decision ultimately rests with each individual.”
