In a recent campaign event in Concord, New Hampshire, former President Donald Trump made it clear that Nikki Haley would not be his pick for vice president. Trump asserted, “She is not presidential timber,” emphasizing his view that she lacks the toughness, intelligence, and respect needed for the job. These comments come amid heightened attacks from Trump on Haley, who is vying to narrow his lead in New Hampshire’s upcoming primary.
While Haley has refrained from directly addressing the possibility of becoming vice president, Trump’s criticism has not deterred her. She has consistently stated, “I am not running to be vice president,” and underscored her determination not to settle for second place. Additionally, Haley challenges the notion that Trump will have the opportunity to choose a vice president, asserting her belief in a pathway to victory for herself.
Trump’s intensified focus on attacking Haley aligns with his efforts to secure an early victory in the GOP field, particularly as Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis faces challenges in the polls. Trump accuses Haley of courting Democrats and labels her a “liberal” candidate, emphasizing policy alignments with Democrats. In response, Haley emphasizes her Tea Party background and highlights conservative policies implemented during her tenure as governor.
Trump had appointed Haley as the United Nations ambassador in 2017, praising her as a “fantastic person” and a “very successful” governor upon her resignation. However, recent claims suggest that Trump appointed her to pave the way for his ally Henry McMaster to become the governor of South Carolina. This revelation adds complexity to their relationship, given Trump’s earlier accolades for Haley’s service.
Notably, two individuals whose names have been floated as potential vice presidential picks—GOP Chairwoman Elise Stefanik and South Carolina Sen. Tim Scott—attended Trump’s New Hampshire event. Stefanik expressed her willingness to serve in any role in a future Trump administration and praised him as “the strongest commander in chief.” Meanwhile, Scott endorsed Trump, emphasizing the need for a president who can unite the country.
Despite Trump’s assertion that he knows his preferred vice presidential candidate, the campaign remains cautious about confirming any final decisions. During a Fox News town hall in Iowa, Trump stated, “I know who it’s going to be,” leaving room for speculation. Senior campaign adviser Chris LaCivita maintained ambiguity, stating, “All I know is what I heard tonight.”
The list of potential running mates includes names like South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem and Georgia Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene. Both have actively supported Trump during the primary cycle, making them viable considerations for the former president.
As the GOP primary landscape unfolds, Trump’s strategic moves, attacks on rivals, and potential vice presidential choices continue to shape the narrative. The dynamics between Trump and Haley, once allies, now underscore the unpredictable nature of political alliances. With the New Hampshire primary on the horizon, the GOP field remains dynamic, and Trump’s decisions will undoubtedly influence the trajectory of the race.