Former President Donald Trump’s supporters expressed skepticism regarding the potential selection of former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley as his running mate in 2024. Despite Trump mentioning several possible contenders, including Haley, supporters attending a rally in Rock Hill, South Carolina, dismissed the idea, citing various reasons for their opposition.
Some Trump supporters labeled Haley as a “RINO” (Republican in Name Only) and questioned her conservative credentials. Kristen Hanrath, an interior paint business owner, expressed distrust in Haley, referring to her as a “Trojan Horse” with Democratic backing. She argued that Haley did not make a significant impact during her tenure as governor from 2011 to 2017.
Christina Difiore, a chauffeur from Rock Hill, believed that Haley was too left-leaning to be Trump’s running mate. Difiore expressed concern that Haley had exposed herself as far-left, making her unfit for such a position. Instead, she suggested other Republican figures like Senators Ted Cruz, Rand Paul, and Tim Scott, as well as Representative Jim Jordan.
Jared Metz from North Carolina criticized Haley for wanting to raise the retirement age and likened her to a “Democrat in disguise.” He expressed hope that Trump would not choose her as the vice president. Metz favored Vivek Ramaswamy as a potential running mate, considering him more relatable to his generation.
Romonte Haymer, a Tennessean and Trump supporter, rejected the idea of Haley as vice president, citing concerns about corruption and her tenure as governor, particularly her association with Boeing. Haymer labeled Haley as a “war hawk” and expressed doubt about her commitment to serving the people.
Haley’s campaign defended her record as governor, highlighting tax cuts, tough immigration policies, voter ID implementation, and job creation. The campaign took a shot at Trump, stating that while Haley was delivering on conservative promises, Trump was donating to Kamala Harris and asserting that he was not conservative enough to be her vice president.
The RealClearPolitics average for the South Carolina GOP primary indicated that Haley was trailing Trump by 25 points, based on polls conducted between Feb. 13 and Feb. 18. Despite this, Haley has garnered support from several prominent South Carolina Republicans.
Mark Lyons, a retired software business owner, expressed a different viewpoint, stating that he would love to see Haley on the ticket with Trump.
