Nikki Haley’s decision to end her U.S. presidential campaign has revealed a fracture among her supporters, with some refusing to back former President Donald Trump and planning to vote for President Joe Biden instead.
While Haley’s base was never large enough to seriously challenge Trump, the division among her voters and donors could impact Trump’s chances in the general election, especially in battleground states with skeptical suburban voters. Interviews with Haley’s supporters indicate a variety of voting intentions, with some backing Trump, others leaning towards Biden, and some considering third-party options.
Haley herself has not endorsed Trump publicly, suggesting uncertainty among key donors awaiting her signal. Despite concerns about Trump’s legal issues, some of Haley’s supporters are returning to Trump, expressing a long-standing preference for him despite previous considerations for alternatives.