New Hampshire Governor Chris Sununu has voiced his support for Nikki Haley, stating her strong performance in the polls justifies her continuing in the race for the Republican nomination. According to a recent poll, 54% of likely Republican voters in New Hampshire would support Donald Trump if Florida Governor Ron DeSantis were not in the race. Meanwhile, 41% would back Haley. While these numbers indicate a strong showing for Trump, Sununu believes that the momentum behind Haley's campaign is significant.
Sununu asserts that there were three primary goals for Haley's campaign. The first was to secure a second-place position, which she has done. Additionally, she has succeeded in reducing the field to only two candidates, herself and Trump. Lastly, Haley aims to build on the momentum gained from her 20% support in Iowa. Sununu believes that Haley can exceed expectations in her home state of South Carolina, leveraging her experience and achievements in the state, including job creation and positive change for its citizens.
Although Haley faces a challenge in South Carolina, trailing behind Trump according to current polls, Sununu remains optimistic about her chances. He notes that her recent surge in support in New Hampshire, where she was previously polling in single digits, speaks to her ability to generate momentum in her home state as well. Sununu emphasizes that winning New Hampshire is not a necessity, but rather the campaign should focus on maintaining and building momentum.
The governor dismisses the significance of endorsements from establishment figures, arguing that Haley is not seeking such support. He claims that Trump, once viewed as a disruptor, has become part of the establishment. In contrast, Haley prioritizes accountability in government, including term limits for politicians. Sununu suggests that Trump's lack of action in this regard has given rise to Haley's appeal.
While Trump has garnered the backing of several establishment figures, such as Senator Tim Scott and Congresswoman Nancy Mace, Sununu believes that Haley's campaign is not reliant on their endorsements. He asserts that Haley's stance on holding politicians accountable for their actions sets her apart from Trump, who, in Sununu's view, has failed to do so.
Governor Sununu's endorsement and belief in Nikki Haley's ability to continue gaining momentum reflects a pivotal moment in the race for the Republican nomination. As the campaign progresses, all eyes will be on Haley's performance in South Carolina and whether she can defy expectations and surpass Trump's support in the state.