Former Republican Gov. Asa Hutchinson Endorses Nikki Haley
Introduction
Former Republican presidential candidate and ex-Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson endorsed Nikki Haley on Saturday, days before she tries to take on frontrunner Donald Trump in the New Hampshire primary.
Hutchinson’s Opposition to Trump
Hutchinson is a conservative whose opposition to Trump became central in his longshot bid for the GOP primary before he dropped out Tuesday.
Hutchinson’s Statement on X
In a post on X, formerly known as Twitter, Hutchinson said: “Anyone who believes Donald Trump will unite this country has been asleep over the last 8 years. Trump intentionally tries to divide America and will continue to do so.”
Hutchinson’s Support for Haley
Hutchinson added: “Go @NikkiHaley in New Hampshire.”
Haley’s Campaign Response
Haley’s campaign did not immediately return a message seeking comment.
Haley’s Strategy in New Hampshire
After finishing third in the leadoff contest in Iowa earlier this month, Haley has been looking to appeal to independent and unaffiliated voters in New Hampshire’s Jan. 23 primary to garner a strong finish and turn the race against Trump into a two-person contest.
Hutchinson’s Decision to Drop Out
Hutchinson dropped out after finishing sixth in the caucuses.
Other Former Rivals’ Endorsements
His backing comes a day after another of their former rivals in the GOP presidential contest, South Carolina Sen. Tim Scott, endorsed Trump. Another former candidate, biotech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy has also backed Trump.
Support from Former Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan
Haley last weekend won the support of former Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan, a Republican who had fueled speculation that he was preparing for his own third-party bid.
Trump’s Campaign Response
Trump’s campaign did not immediately respond to a message seeking comment.