Introduction

Nikki Haley, the Republican nominee for president, is facing yet another crushing defeat at the hands of Donald Trump, this time in her home state of South Carolina. However, Ms. Haley has promised not to give up, sparking rumors about the goals of her unlikely campaign.

Campaign Rally in Augusta

A group of Republican voters in Augusta, South Carolina, crammed into the sunlit top floor of a municipal building three days prior to the state primary, in support of Nikki Haley. Ms. Haley, the former governor of the state, delivered a confident and more assertive campaign speech to the audience. She frequently and sharply criticized her opponent and the front-runner for the Republican nomination, former President Donald Trump—a move she had previously avoided.

At one point, she described him as “literally unhinged,” referring to his victory speech following the New Hampshire primary. She later said, “He’s obsessed with himself.”

Ms. Haley was making her pitch and criticizing the former president, at least in this room. There were long pauses between her jokes and the thunderous laughter they elicited, and at least a dozen voters in attendance told the BBC they were all in on Ms. Haley. Holt Moran, one of her supporters, stated, “She’s got an outstanding record.” “She’s just the perfect person.”

Voter Sentiments

However, each voter appeared to flinch before responding negatively when asked if Ms. Haley had any chance of winning the primary or even another Republican race later on. “Sadly, no,” stated Mr. Moran.

Anticipated Defeat

It will be very difficult for Ms. Haley to find a route to the nomination, even with her outwardly optimistic demeanor, the jam-packed events, and the beaming crowds. She is expected to lose to Mr. Trump once more on Saturday, this time in her own state, as she has already lost all of her contests.