Also according to people close to her, Haley, 51, will make her formal announcement on Feb. 15. Haley is thus the first Republican challenger declared to Donald Trump, her boss when she was still a UN ambassador.
Previously, Haley said she would not run if Trump did, but she reportedly withdrew. “It’s time for a new generation,” she recently tweeted. It’s time for a new leadership. And it’s time to take back our country. America is worth the fight, and we’re just getting started.”
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More Republicans are expected to run after Haley. Analysts say they have been cautious and hesitant because no one wants to be the first to be exposed to Trump’s undoubtedly caustic comments. Other possible candidates include Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, former Vice President Mike Pence and former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo.
Candidates are forced to “come out” at an early stage: the Republican party council is considering requiring candidates who want to participate in upcoming election debates to demonstrate that they can raise enough funds from voters. The first Republican presidential debate is scheduled for July or August.
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