Trump and Haley Set for Intense Battle in New Hampshire Primary Showdown
In New Hampshire’s upcoming primary on Tuesday, the spotlight is on the clash between Donald Trump and Nikki Haley, marking a pivotal moment in the race for the Republican nomination. Trump, the former president, aims to secure a decisive victory over Haley, the ex-governor of South Carolina, in his bid to become the Republican nominee once again.
Haley is counting on the support of New Hampshire’s independent voters to pull off an unexpected upset. This contest follows Trump’s recent landslide win in Iowa, setting the stage for the eventual Republican nominee to challenge the likely Democratic nominee, President Joe Biden, in the upcoming general election in November.
The narrowing of the Republican field to just Trump and Haley occurred after Florida Governor Ron DeSantis trailed in Iowa’s caucuses and subsequently withdrew, endorsing Trump. Trump had already held a substantial lead in New Hampshire polls before DeSantis’ exit, with many of the Florida governor’s supporters seeing Trump as the preferred alternative.
Recent polls by Suffolk University and the Boston Globe, as well as Monmouth University and the Washington Post, indicate a significant lead for Trump, with a 19-point and 18-point advantage over Haley, respectively. At a rally in Laconia, New Hampshire, Trump emphasized the need for a substantial victory, stating, “This country has gone to hell,” and urged voters not to choose a “losing candidate” like Nikki Haley.
Meanwhile, Haley, 52, highlighted Trump’s legal troubles at a campaign event, questioning his focus on grievances and vendettas. She encouraged voters to decide between “more of the same” or something new. In Salem, she emphasized her chances in a general election against President Biden and called for support to “save the country.”
Notably, in the small town of Dixville Notch, all six registered voters chose Haley over Trump in a midnight vote, showcasing the diversity of opinions within the state.
The New Hampshire primary, known for its moderate stance compared to Iowa, is open to all voters, and the Haley campaign is banking on the 40% of registered independent voters to make a difference. As the primary unfolds, all eyes are on whether Trump can secure a resounding victory or if Haley can defy expectations.
In the midst of this Republican showdown, the Democratic New Hampshire primary is marked by a dispute between state and national party officials. The DNC’s decision to change the order of primaries made South Carolina the first, but New Hampshire proceeded with its primary anyway. The DNC opted not to recognize the results and did not include Biden on the ballot, leading some of his allies in the state to encourage voters to write in his name.
As polls in the state close on Tuesday evening, preliminary results are expected, although the final tally may take several more hours to determine the outcome of this closely watched primary.
Read More: Bold Move: Ron DeSantis Withdraws from 2024 Presidential Race, Throws Support Behind Trump