In a fiery and contentious interview on "Fox & Friends," former South Carolina Republican Governor Nikki Haley pushed back against what she perceives as the media's attempt to "coronate" former President Donald Trump as the Republican presidential nominee.
Haley, who served as the U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, is vying to make a significant impact in Tuesday's New Hampshire primary and asserted her determination to stay in the race "no matter what," emphasizing the importance of providing the American people with choices.
During the interview, co-host Ainsley Earhardt, also from South Carolina, questioned Haley about her potential course of action if she didn't win the primary. Haley remained steadfast, stating that she wouldn't exit the race, highlighting the significance of allowing New Hampshire voters to exercise their voice. Despite trailing significantly behind Trump in the Iowa caucus, where he secured 51% of the vote compared to her 19%, Haley expressed confidence in continuing her campaign.
Earhardt pressed further, addressing concerns about Haley's polling numbers in her home state and the apparent dominance of Trump. Undeterred, Haley reiterated her commitment to fight, dismissing any notion of bowing out.
Co-host Brian Kilmeade challenged Haley on her use of the term "coronate" and expressed confusion about why she views the media as an enemy. Haley pointed to media narratives favoring Trump and political pressure for candidates to withdraw, arguing that such actions contradict democratic principles.
Contentious Fox and Friends interview w/ Haley this AM as she pushes back on their insinuations of dropping out after NH.
Haley: “I don’t care how much y’all want to coronate Donald Trump. At the end of the day, that’s not what Americans want. Americans want a choice.“ pic.twitter.com/TPULIPJVcR
— Alex Thompson (@AlexThomp) January 23, 2024
The exchange underscored Haley's defiance against the prevailing sentiment that the Republican nomination is destined for Trump. She accused the media and political class of prematurely declaring the competition over and emphasized the importance of preserving the democratic process. The interview highlighted the intensity surrounding Haley's campaign and her determination to challenge the perceived inevitability of Trump's nomination.
As the New Hampshire primary unfolds, Haley's refusal to concede and her insistence on providing Americans with a choice in the political landscape offer a glimpse into the internal dynamics of the Republican Party. The disagreement with media narratives and the assertion of democratic principles add layers of complexity to the ongoing political discourse.
Whether Haley can significantly alter the course of the nomination race remains to be seen, but her unwavering resolve signals a continued fight against what she perceives as premature conclusions and attempts to stifle democratic decision-making.