Nikki Haley ends presidential campaign with ‘no regrets,’ ceding GOP nomination to Trump

US Markets
Wednesday, March 6th, 2024 3:32 pm EDT

Key Points

  • Nikki Haley ends her 2024 presidential campaign after losing all states but Vermont in Super Tuesday’s primary, effectively conceding the Republican nomination to former President Donald Trump.
  • Her decision to suspend her campaign signals the start of the general election, with Trump and President Joe Biden unofficially leading their parties after a series of victories.
  • While not endorsing any candidate, Haley encourages Trump to earn the support of Republicans and independent voters who backed her, emphasizing the need for unity within the party.

Nikki Haley, former South Carolina Governor and Republican presidential candidate, withdrew from the 2024 presidential race following Super Tuesday’s primary contests where she only won Vermont. Admitting defeat, she suspended her campaign, signaling the unofficial beginning of the general election. In her announcement, she expressed gratitude for the support received but acknowledged the time to end her bid. Haley didn’t endorse any candidate but urged former President Donald Trump to earn the support of those who didn’t back him, emphasizing the need for unity within the party. Despite her initial resistance to dropping out, mounting losses, especially in her home state, pushed Haley to exit the race. Her criticism of Trump intensified as the race narrowed, with her campaign focusing on offering a different direction for the Republican Party. However, she faced challenges regarding her conservative credentials, particularly on issues like abortion, where she took a softer stance. Despite her attempts to appeal to a broad coalition, including independents and Democrats, Haley couldn’t overcome Trump’s dominance within the GOP. As she steps back from the race, Haley looks forward to continuing her advocacy and potentially influencing the future of the party. Her political career, highlighted by her tenure as South Carolina’s first female minority governor, remains a significant part of her legacy.

For the full original article on CNBC, please click here: https://www.cnbc.com/2024/03/06/nikki-haley-to-end-presidential-campaign-handing-gop-nomination-to-trump.html