Ronna McDaniel, the Chairwoman of the Republican National Committee (RNC), has urged Nikki Haley, the former Governor of South Carolina and presidential candidate, to officially exit the Republican presidential nomination competition.
McDaniel expressed this view in a Fox News interview following Haley’s significant loss in the New Hampshire primary, where former President Donald Trump secured a substantial win.
In the interview, McDaniel informed the conservative network that given Trump’s success in both the Iowa caucuses and New Hampshire primary, a historic achievement for a GOP candidate, Haley had little prospect of surpassing him.
She clarified that although she acknowledges Haley’s well-run campaign, she observed a distinct and unmistakable message from Republican voters nationwide.
McDaniel further stated that the primary objective for all Republicans in the United States is to defeat President Joe Biden in the 2024 presidential election. She emphasized the need to unite around Trump as the initial step in that direction. Additionally, she suggested that the former president should commence campaigning as the GOP general nominee and consider announcing his running mate at the earliest opportunity.
Several Republicans have recommended that Haley halt her presidential campaign, despite her plans to participate in South Carolina’s primary in March. Numerous surveys indicate that Trump currently holds a 30 percentage point lead in that state.
Among the scarce GOP leaders endorsing Haley following her setback in New Hampshire is state Governor Chris Sununu. In response to McDaniel’s statements, he asserted that the former South Carolina governor surpassed all expectations and is currently the sole contender Trump has within the Republican Party.
Sununu condemned McDaniel’s statement, labeling it as irresponsible to propose Haley’s withdrawal following losses in two states, particularly with 40 more states yet to participate in the primary process. He underscored that the voters, not a cadre of political elites, should ultimately make such decisions.
