Haley Gains Ground in Republican Primary Race; Trump Still Leads by Wide Margin

A recent poll by Rasmussen Reports reveals that Nikki Haley is steadily closing the gap between herself and former President Donald Trump in the 2024 GOP primary race.

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Increased Support From Voters

While Trump maintains a significant lead, Haley’s performance in televised debates and increased support from voters suggest she is emerging as a prominent contender.

Haley Gains Momentum

The Rasmussen survey of 792 likely Republican voters indicates that Nikki Haley has secured the second-place position in the GOP primary with 13 percent support. Donald Trump, however, continues to lead the field by a wide margin with 51 percent.

Rise in Support

Milwaukee, Wisconsin USA – August 23rd, 2023: Former Governor of South Carolina Nikki Haley participated in the 2024 Republican Presidential debate. — Photo by samael1986

Haley’s support has shown modest growth since the previous Rasmussen poll in November, where she garnered 9 percent support. Her current standing reflects a four-point increase in the race.

Challenging Trump’s Dominance

A December 17 CBS further underscores Haley’s progress, revealing that she has narrowed Trump’s lead in New Hampshire to 15 points (44-29 percent).

Declining Support for DeSantis

Apr 11, 2023 AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND: Illustration of Republican Governor Ronald Dion DeSantis who is predicted to run for president in 2024 with American flag done in retro style on white background. — Vector by patrimonio

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, once considered Trump’s ideal successor for the Republican presidential nomination, is experiencing waning support in the polls. DeSantis is currently tied for third place with 9 percent, alongside former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie.

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Vivek Ramaswamy’s Minimal Support

Businessman Vivek Ramaswamy, who recently decided to pull all televised campaign ads ahead of the primary season, received just one percent support in the latest Rasmussen report.

Haley and Ramaswamy as Potential Running Mates

Both Nikki Haley and Vivek Ramaswamy have been mentioned as potential running mates for Donald Trump if he secures the Republican presidential nomination. Speculation has arisen that Trump might choose a female running mate in 2024 to broaden the ticket’s appeal.

Trump’s Inner Circle Weighs In

Reports suggest that Donald Trump has consulted with his inner circle about the possibility of Haley as a running mate. However, some figures within the MAGA movement, including Donald Trump Jr., have expressed reservations about the idea.

Haley’s Response

Credit: Christian Monterrosa/AFP via Getty Images

Nikki Haley has dismissed suggestions that she is positioning herself to be Trump’s potential vice president, stating firmly, “I don’t play for second.”

Analyzing Haley’s Potential Role

Political experts Danielle Vinson of Furman University told Newsweek that Haley may not be inclined to serve as Trump’s running mate, citing her past role as the U.S. ambassador to the United Nations and potential differences in approaches.

Strategic Positioning

Regardless of the nomination outcome in 2024, Nikki Haley’s current standing positions her favorably for potential future runs in politics, ensuring her presence and influence within the GOP landscape.