Nikki Haley, formerly a contender against Donald Trump for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination, has confirmed her appearance at the Republican National Convention. Initially hesitant to attend, Haley is slated to speak on the convention’s second day in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Also expected to address the audience is another former Trump rival, Ron DeSantis.
Haley’s journey has been marked by a tumultuous relationship with Trump, whom she criticized sharply during her campaign, branding him “unhinged.” Despite their contentious history, Haley recently called for party unity, instructing her 97 delegates to support Trump at the convention.
The former United Nations ambassador, who previously served in Trump’s administration, faced backlash from him during her campaign, including mocking nicknames like “bird brain.” Although she initially refrained from endorsing Trump after dropping out of the race due to weak primary showings, Haley later pledged her vote to him.
Trump himself has hinted at Haley’s potential role in his future administration, expressing confidence that she will play a part “in some form.” Haley notably expressed solidarity with Trump following a recent shooting incident at one of his rallies in Pennsylvania.
The convention’s second day, themed “Make America Safe Once Again,” will feature various Republican figures, including several of Trump’s 2020 primary challengers who are expected to endorse him. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, once considered a potential 2024 nominee, is among the prominent speakers scheduled for the evening, alongside entrepreneur-turned-Trump-surrogate Vivek Ramaswamy.
In addition to political figures, lawmakers like Senator Marco Rubio and Senator Ted Cruz, who Trump defeated in the 2016 election, are set to voice their support for his nomination. Congresswoman Elise Stefanik and Republican Senate candidates such as Dave McCormick will also take the stage tonight.
