Nikki Haley has decided to release the 97 delegates she won during the Republican primary earlier this year, allowing them to support Donald Trump at the upcoming convention. This move is aimed at consolidating GOP support around Trump, the party's presumptive nominee.
In a statement, Haley emphasized the importance of party unity at the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee. She criticized Democratic President Joe Biden, stating that he is not competent for a second term, and expressed concerns about Vice President Kamala Harris potentially assuming the presidency, calling it a potential disaster for America.
Haley urged her delegates to throw their support behind Trump, highlighting the need for a president who can address national security concerns, secure borders, reduce debt, and revive the economy.
Despite her endorsement, Haley will not be attending the convention in Milwaukee. Her spokesperson confirmed that she was not invited and expressed Haley's support for Trump's vision for the event.
During her own presidential campaign, Haley was the last major GOP contender against Trump. She suspended her campaign after Trump's success on Super Tuesday, where she criticized him for causing chaos and neglecting U.S. alliances abroad. Trump, in response, mocked her with the nickname 'Birdbrain,' but ceased these attacks after securing enough delegates to become the presumptive Republican nominee.
Trump's campaign has not yet commented on Haley's decision to release her delegates. Biden's campaign has been actively trying to win over Haley's supporters, whom they see as potential swing voters. However, Haley reaffirmed her support for Trump in May and left it to the former president to garner backing from her followers.