2024 Republican presidential candidate Nikki Haley has responded to the recent deadly Iran-backed militia attack in Jordan, discussed the UNRWA controversy, and commented on her run for office. Haley, a former two-term South Carolina governor and U.N. ambassador in former President Donald Trump’s administration, is having a lucrative day in New York City. Her campaign expects to raise $1.5 million at a trio of top-dollar fundraisers, with more events planned in donor-rich environments of South Florida, California, and Texas over the next two weeks.
Haley’s campaign has seen a surge in small dollar grassroots donations, with $4 million raised in the days following the New Hampshire primary. Despite facing a steep uphill climb for the nomination and internal polls suggesting Trump’s lead in South Carolina, Haley remains optimistic. She points to the large turnouts at her recent rallies in her home state and her high approval rating as evidence of her potential success.
Major Republican donors continue to support Haley, despite Trump’s warnings to stop contributing. A Republican strategist with ties to the GOP donor class explains that this reflects a broader divide within the Republican Party between elites and grassroots supporters. While Trump has been successful at securing major financial support from elites, he is not their preferred candidate. Haley, on the other hand, has garnered support from working-class, grassroots Republicans.
Trump’s threat to permanently bar donors from the MAGA camp if they contribute to Haley’s campaign has not deterred supporters. In fact, Haley’s campaign reported raising over $1 million and selling over 15,000 shirts with the slogan “barred permanently” in response to Trump’s warning. The campaign sees this surge of support as energizing the 50% of Republican primary voters who do not want Trump and are rallying behind Haley.
As Haley continues to campaign across the country, her campaign manager is expected to make the case with a network of Republican megadonors known as the American Opportunity Alliance. This gathering also includes Susie Wiles, a top adviser from the Trump campaign. Trump himself has been making efforts to mend fences and court top dollar contributors, recognizing the importance of consolidating Republican support both politically and financially.
Overall, Nikki Haley’s campaign is gaining momentum and attracting significant financial support despite the obstacles she faces. Her ability to energize grassroots donors and maintain a strong presence in her home state of South Carolina will be crucial in her bid for the Republican nomination in 2024.
