In the 2024 Republican primary, Nikki Haley, despite recent losses, continues to fight for the nomination, causing concern among some Republicans.
Her aggressive strategy includes attacking Donald Trump, which has led to increased fundraising and a growing donor base.
However, Trump’s team sees her as a distraction and a drain on resources as they aim to focus on the general election against President Joe Biden.
“Nobody on Trump’s team thinks (a Biden matchup) is going to be easy. It’s going to be a bumpy road. It’s going to be a tough race. They want to hit the starter’s pistol and get going,” former Trump adviser David Urban said.
“People need to start coming together and working together. But right now, none of that is happening because she’s still out there stoking the anti-Trump fire.”
“I am not going anywhere,” Haley said. “We have a country to save. And I am determined to keep on going the entire way. As long as we can keep closing that gap, I’m gonna keep staying in.”
Despite growing support, some Republican operatives fear that Haley’s continued candidacy may lead to unforced errors and risks for Trump.
“The longer she hangs around and the more Trump focuses on her, the greater likelihood you get unforced errors,” Republican pollster Neil Newhouse said. “She’s giving ammunition to Biden’s campaign.”
