In the Republican presidential race, Donald Trump emerged victorious in New Hampshire, marking a significant step towards a potential rematch with Democratic President Joe Biden in November.
Despite Trump’s triumph, Nikki Haley, his only remaining rival for the nomination, remains resolute, challenging Trump to a debate and affirming her determination to persist in the contest.
At a post-election party in Concord, Haley, a former U.N. ambassador, declared, “This race is far from over,” emphasizing her fighting spirit. She positioned herself as the last contender standing against Trump and urged a debate between them.
In response, Trump, at his own party in Nashua, mocked Haley, referring to her as an “imposter” and downplaying her speech as if she had won. He asserted, “She didn’t win. She lost … She had a very bad night.”
Trump’s critical remarks were echoed in a series of angry posts on his Truth Social app, where he labeled Haley as “DELUSIONAL.”
The competitive showdown is now shifting focus to the next battleground, scheduled for February 24 in South Carolina, where Haley, having served two terms as governor, has significant ties. Trump has secured endorsements from key Republican figures in the state, and polls indicate a substantial lead for him.
In New Hampshire, with 86% of the expected vote counted, Trump commanded a comfortable lead with 54.4% to Haley’s 43.5%.
The outcome underscores Trump’s dominance, becoming the first Republican to sweep competitive votes in both Iowa and New Hampshire since 1976, when these states solidified their position as the first nominating contests.
The result intensifies calls from some Republicans for Haley to exit the race, enabling the party to unite behind Trump more effectively.
Despite these calls, Haley’s campaign, as outlined in a memo, asserts its commitment to pushing forward until “Super Tuesday” on March 5, when Republicans in 15 states and one territory will cast their votes.
This primary marked the first direct one-on-one matchup between Trump and Haley after Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, once considered a formidable challenger, dropped out on Sunday and endorsed Trump.
While Trump secures his position, the Democratic President Joe Biden, aged 81, emerged as the winner of the New Hampshire Democratic primary, highlighting a potential November rematch between the two.
Exit polls revealed potential vulnerabilities for both candidates. Concerns about Trump’s fitness for service, given the 91 criminal charges he faces, were expressed by 42% of Republican primary voters.
Additionally, three-quarters of these voters perceived the economy as either poor or not good, posing a challenge for Biden to highlight his administration’s achievements. The stage is set for a heated Republican primary season, with Haley standing firm and Trump solidifying his position as the frontrunner.
