Charleston, South Carolina – Nikki Haley announced on Wednesday her decision to suspend her presidential campaign, refraining from directly endorsing Donald Trump for the nomination.
Expressing her gratitude for the nationwide support her campaign received, Haley made her announcement in her home state of South Carolina. “I am filled with gratitude for the outpouring of support we’ve received from all across our great country,” she stated. “However, it is time for me to suspend my campaign.”
Haley emphasized her commitment to ensuring American voices were heard and expressed pride in her efforts. “I have no regrets. While I will not continue my candidacy, I remain committed to advocating for the values I believe in,” she remarked.
This announcement follows significant defeats in the Super Tuesday primaries, effectively leaving Trump as the primary contender for the Republican nomination in 2024.
Though Haley did not formally endorse Trump, she extended her well wishes to him and emphasized the importance of unity. “Our nation is too valuable to allow our differences to divide us,” Haley commented. She encouraged Trump to actively seek the support of those within the party and beyond who were hesitant about his candidacy.
Reflecting on her campaign and the values she championed, Haley did not explicitly endorse Trump but highlighted her lifelong commitment to the Republican Party and conservative principles. Quoting Margaret Thatcher, she encouraged independent thinking among her supporters.
Haley concluded her campaign by invoking the Book of Joshua, emphasizing strength, courage, and faith.
In response to Haley’s suspension, Trump’s campaign launched a fundraising initiative, stressing the importance of unity within the party to defeat Joe Biden in the upcoming election.
Both Trump and Biden have since reached out to Haley’s supporters, with Biden explicitly inviting them to join his campaign, highlighting common goals such as preserving democracy, upholding the rule of law, and maintaining national and international respect and dignity.
Haley’s departure from the race clears the path for a potential rematch between Trump and President Biden, setting the stage for the next presidential election.