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Nikki Haley, a struggling Republican contender for the 2024 election, has only secured one primary win. In order to prevent further losses in the primaries, she is considering running as a third-party candidate.
The previous United Nations representative is currently the only remaining competitor from the GOP against the leading candidate, Donald Trump. Trump has won every caucus and primary within his party, except for Ms. Haley’s recent victory in Washington D.C., which could be seen as a potential win for her 2024 presidential aspirations.
As each major defeat pushes her further away from becoming her party’s chosen candidate, there has been talk about the possibility of Ms Haley running as a third-party contender.
No Labels, a political organization, has expressed willingness to potentially include Ms. Haley as a candidate for their independent ticket, depending on her interest. Joe Cunningham, the group’s national director, stated on Fox News last month that they are intrigued by the former governor of South Carolina.
“We are searching for individuals of excellent caliber who have a wide appeal to independents, Democrats, and Republicans,” he stated.
Formerly, Ms. Haley has rejected the notion of being a third-party contender and has stressed her strong affiliation with the Republican party. “I have not talked to anyone about the independent No Labels, despite all the rumors,” Ms. Haley stated during the weekend. “I am aware that they have shown interest, but I am loyal to the Republican party.”
She stated that she is attempting to discuss a solution for the future of Republicans.
The ex-governor of South Carolina stated, “If I were to participate in No Labels, a Democratic vice president would be necessary.”
A run as a third-party candidate could be an interesting move as more and more Americans seem exhausted by the prospect of another Joe Biden-Donald Trump rematch.
Over fifty percent of Americans stated they would feel “unsatisfied” if President Biden and Mr. Trump were chosen as their party’s candidates.
Age is a significant factor. According to a recent poll, 73% of voters believe that the current president, who is 81 years old, is too old to effectively serve in office. In comparison, 42% feel the same about the former president, who is 77.
Throughout her time on the campaign trail, Ms Haley, who is 52 years old, has made comments about the ages of the leading candidates.
In the previous month, she shared on X: “We are aware of individuals in their 80’s who can outmatch us in physical abilities… and then there are Trump and Biden. We require a leader who possesses the determination and strength to effectively handle the various issues our nation is facing.”
There is a possibility that a third-party candidate could cause Nikki Haley loyalists to leave the Republican party and vote for her instead, potentially impacting Mr. Trump’s vote count. However, this outcome is yet to be confirmed.
The growing rumors about her potential bid as a third-party candidate come right before Super Tuesday on March 5th, when 15 states will have their Republican primary elections.
On March 3rd, Ms. Haley emphasized that only a few states have voted so far. As a large country, it is important for everyone to have the chance to cast their vote for a candidate they support, rather than simply voting against someone else.
The previous United Nations ambassador also promised to remain in the competition as long as she remains competitive.
Source: independent.co.uk
