In a significant shift, Republican presidential candidate Nikki Haley declined to confirm her support for Donald Trump should he become the GOP nominee again. Speaking on ABC’s “This Week,” Haley emphasized her focus on defeating Trump in the primary, stating, “I’m running against him because I don’t think he should be president.” This marks a departure from her previous stance, where she had pledged support for Trump if he won the primary.
Strategic Ambiguity:
When pressed by host Jonathan Karl about supporting Trump, Haley maintained strategic ambiguity, asserting her determination to win the nomination first. This departure from her earlier commitment reflects an intensified critique of Trump’s recent actions and statements.
Criticism of Trump’s NATO Comments:
Haley criticized Trump for recent remarks perceived as undermining the NATO alliance. She highlighted Trump’s attempt to influence the Republican National Committee’s leadership, expressing concerns about the use of campaign funds for personal legal battles. The former South Carolina governor underscored the need for Republicans to wake up to the potential consequences.
Concerns over Trump’s Silence:
Notably, Haley voiced concerns about Trump’s silence on the death of Putin critic Alexei Navalny. She asserted that Trump’s failure to address the matter raises questions about his stance on human rights and opposition to Putin’s regime.
Campaign Strategy:
Haley’s campaign has taken an assertive approach, warning of potential chaos under a Trump presidency. Recent ads and statements highlight Trump’s ongoing legal challenges, portraying an “unhinged president” as an unsafe choice. Despite these efforts, Haley faces challenges in gaining positive traction on the ballot.
Potential Fallout:
Haley’s increased criticism of Trump comes with potential repercussions, as it risks turning Trump into a long-term adversary. The campaign acknowledges this risk, humorously marketing shirts with the slogan “barred permanently,” referencing Trump’s warning that Haley donors would be permanently barred from the MAGA camp.
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