Tim Scott Endorse Donald Trump:
Former GOP presidential candidate and South Carolina Senator Tim Scott backs Trump in New Hampshire.
The endorsement is seen as a setback for Nikki Haley, who appointed Scott to his Senate seat in 2012. It reflects Trump’s significant influence within the party.
Scott stated, we need a president who will close our southern border today. We need Donald Trump. He emphasized the need for a president to unite the country and protect Social Security, endorsing Trump for these reasons.
Trump on Scott:
Trump revealed that Senator Scott endorsed him two days prior during an introduction on stage. The decision to delay the public announcement highlights the importance Trump places on Scott’s support. This strategy aims to maximize the impact of Scott’s endorsement in the days leading up to the New Hampshire primary.
CNN had previously reported behind-the-scenes discussions between Trump and Scott regarding the endorsement, as per sources familiar with the talks.
Trump’s Expectation from Scott:
Initially, Trump’s team had hoped for Scott’s endorsement before the South Carolina primary, but plans changed due to Haley’s rise in the New Hampshire polls.
Responding to questions about Scott’s plans, Haley stated, “We’ll wait and see if it happens” during a visit to a New Hampshire diner.
In a later statement, she remarked on Trump aligning with Washington insiders, contrasting with his promise to “drain the swamp.”
According to a source close to Haley, she was unaware of Scott’s endorsement plans and had recently sought his endorsement for the 2024 race in a call with him.
Scott Decision:
Those familiar with both Scott and Trump were not surprised by Scott’s decision to endorse the former president. However, the timing of the endorsement, just four days before the New Hampshire primary, drew attention in both their circles.
Trump, concerned about Haley’s standing in the state, strategically announced the endorsement to portray her as unpopular among those who know her best in her home state. The move is seen as an effort to influence perceptions ahead of the New Hampshire primary.
Remarks on Haley:
Trump declared on Friday that Haley would likely not be his running mate if he secures the Republican nomination, criticizing her vigorously ahead of the state
During a campaign event, Trump stated, “She is not presidential timber,” suggesting she won’t be chosen as vice president.
South Carolina Representatives Russell Fry and William Timmons are expected to join Trump in campaigning in New Hampshire, as his team intensifies efforts against the former governor.
While Trump’s team expresses confidence in winning the New Hampshire primary, advisers concede that the margins are believed to be closer there than in any other early voting state.
Growing Poverty:
Senator Scott initiated his presidential campaign in May. He focused on his personal narrative, frequently sharing his upbringing in poverty in South Carolina. A key element of his story was being raised by a single mother.
Not Back Republican:
Despite launching his presidential campaign in May, Senator Scott struggled to gain momentum. In November, he decided to suspend his bid. During an interview with Fox News’ Trey Gowdy, Scott expressed that he wouldn’t endorse another Republican candidate. He believed that the most helpful course of action was to refrain from endorsing any primary candidate. Scott also reiterated his consistent stance against accepting a vice presidential nomination, a position he had frequently emphasized during his campaign.
Support for Trump Policies:
During his campaign, Senator Scott’s criticism of Trump was mild compared to his critiques of other primary contenders. He frequently voiced approval for policies implemented during the Trump administration. However, he consistently argued that Trump lacked sufficient support in crucial swing states. Scott believed this deficiency could hinder Republicans’ chances of success in a general election.
Political Inclination towards Haley:
Before the 2024 campaign, Senator Scott and Nikki Haley were longtime friends and political allies. In 2012, Haley appointed Scott to the vacant seat of Sen. Jim DeMint, citing his personality and record. After Scott suspended his primary campaign, some of his financial supporters swiftly shifted their support to Haley
