Steve Bannon’s Warning Against Nikki Haley as Trump’s Running Mate
Former Trump adviser Steve Bannon has issued a stark caution against considering Nikki Haley as a potential running mate for Donald Trump in the 2024 elections.
Bannon perceives Haley, Trump’s former UN Ambassador, as a potentially divisive figure within the Republican Party, likening her influence as a possible vice president to that of Dick Cheney during the Bush administration.
Haley’s Growing Popularity and Potential Role
Haley, a former governor of South Carolina, has been gaining significant traction among Republican voters, notably in more moderate states like New Hampshire.
Recent polling in New Hampshire has shown her trailing Trump by a mere 4 percentage points, a substantial gain considering Trump’s significant lead in previous polls.
Bannon’s Concerns and Predictions
Bannon predicts a contentious battle within the Republican Party, warning that some factions will advocate forcefully for Haley’s inclusion on Trump’s ticket, citing the need for gender balance and her potential to appeal to Never Trumpers.
However, Bannon strongly opposes this idea, asserting that Haley’s involvement in the administration would lead to failure.
He portrays her as a ‘viper,’ speculating that she would seek to wield excessive power behind the scenes, drawing parallels between her potential role and Dick Cheney’s influence during the Bush presidency.
Echoes of Past Comparisons and Disapproval
The comparison between Haley and Cheney isn’t new, with previous comments from others within the political sphere drawing similar connections.
Donald Trump Jr. has expressed opposition to Haley joining his father’s campaign, and figures like Tucker Carlson have vehemently advocated against the prospect of a Trump-Haley ticket.
Haley’s Campaign and Strategy
Meanwhile, Haley’s campaign strategy involves an aggressive push in Iowa, with plans to spend a substantial amount on advertisements leading up to the caucuses on January 15.
Her preparation for debates, particularly against formidable opponents like Florida Gov.
Ron DeSantis, underscores her commitment to securing a strong position within the primaries.