Nikki Haley wanted to become the Republican presidential candidate herself – she was unable to hold her own against Trump in the primary. Now she has clear words to say about his running mate.
Former Republican US presidential candidate Nikki Haley has criticized derogatory comments made by vice presidential candidate JD Vance about childless women. “It’s not helpful to talk about whether women have children or not,” the 52-year-old said of her party colleague’s statements. “You know, if you want to talk about things, stick to the political content. Americans are smart. They don’t need all this other noise distracting them.”
Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump introduced Vance as his vice president in mid-July. Shortly afterwards, the politician and author came under fire for his sexist statements about childless women. In an interview in 2021, the father of three had called leading Democratic politicians “childless cat women.” Vance later complained that he had been misunderstood. It was not the senator’s only statement in this direction. Vance also once demanded that childless people should have less say in a democracy and pay more taxes. He also continued to make disparaging comments about childless people during the election campaign.
Even though Haley had publicly ruled out becoming Trump’s running mate, there were reports that the former governor of South Carolina had flirted with the post. However, Trump made it clear that he was not considering Haley for the role. The 78-year-old wants to move back into the White House after the presidential election on November 5.
Haley also spoke about her support for Trump in the TV interview. During the primary campaign, the Republican had questioned Trump’s mental suitability for the presidency. Trump, in turn, made racist comments against the daughter of Indian immigrants. Nevertheless, the former US ambassador to the United Nations openly supported her former boss at the Republican Party convention in July – and made a political U-turn. Trump does not seem to be particularly interested in further campaign support for his former opponent.
“He knows I’m ready,” said Haley when asked if she would hold campaign events for Trump. Journalist Margaret Brennan replied: “In other words, you haven’t been asked to campaign. Are you advising him on preparing for the TV debate or are you talking to the campaign team?” Haley replied: “I’m not, and that’s his decision.” Trump can do whatever he wants during the campaign. “So far, there hasn’t been a request. But you know, if he asks, I’m happy to help him.” Although she doesn’t agree with Trump’s political style, she supports his political goals.
