Staff Reports
In the spirited journey toward the GOP's 2024 presidential nomination, the entry of former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie has added a twist, complicating the trajectory for both himself and other contenders, notably former United Nations Ambassador Nikki Haley.
.@GovChristie poses a major threat to @NikkiHaley in New Hampshirehttps://t.co/JsTgdCWBqL https://t.co/JsTgdCWBqL
— Washington Examiner (@dcexaminer) December 21, 2023
Christie's bold strategy orbits around challenging the legacy of former President Donald Trump and making a strong mark in the New Hampshire primary. Yet, despite his efforts, Christie finds himself trailing significantly behind Trump in New Hampshire with the primary looming just around the corner. This could spell trouble for Haley, who's been gathering momentum in polls and recently earned the crucial backing of Governor Chris Sununu from New Hampshire.
Ironically, Christie, known for his relentless approach in dismantling rival candidates, now emerges as a potential obstacle to Haley's campaign. His consistent, albeit trailing, support in New Hampshire polls averaging around 10-12% could disrupt Haley's aspirations for a decisive victory in the primary.
Latest poll averages in New Hampshire position Christie at 12.3% support, trailing Haley at 21.3% and Trump at a commanding 44.3%. Another CBS News/YouGov poll released recently reiterated Christie's position at 10%, while Haley stood at 29% and Trump at 44% among likely GOP New Hampshire primary voters.
Christie hasn't minced words about his bid to block Trump's nomination, making it the cornerstone of his campaign. He's also directed attacks towards Haley and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, the top two non-Trump candidates, criticizing their reluctance to confront Trump.
Amid calls for Christie to exit the race to bolster Haley's chances, concerns persist that his continued presence could complicate matters for her. New Hampshire's open primary status attracts not only Republican voters but also approximately 40% of independent voters. Haley's endorsement by Governor Sununu aims to sway independent voters favorably, yet Christie's persistent presence raises concerns among political consultants.
Despite the challenges posed by Christie's candidacy, Haley remains resolute in garnering the support needed to tackle Trump. Republican strategist Ford O'Connell suggests that if Christie were to bow out, his anti-Trump supporters might gravitate towards Haley. However, overcoming Trump's formidable lead remains an uphill struggle.
The recent Colorado Supreme Court ruling disqualifying Trump from the state's primary ballot has united his opponents, galvanizing Christie to persist in his mission against Trump, even if it comes at the cost of other contenders.
With the Iowa caucuses and New Hampshire primary looming, pressure mounts on Haley to secure vital voter support despite the looming Christie challenge. The upcoming debates hosted by CNN and ABC News present crucial platforms for candidates to sway GOP sentiments and potentially influence the primary's outcome.
