She is trying to resonate with her audience.
In a recent Fox News town hall event in Des Moines, former U.N. Ambassador and GOP presidential candidate Nikki Haley addressed critical political issues, ranging from border security to faith and her stance on former President Trump.
A central theme of Haley’s discourse was the urgent need to restore border security, particularly in the face of a surge in illegal immigration during the Biden administration. She outlined a comprehensive plan that includes implementing a national E-Verify program, defunding sanctuary cities, ending handouts to illegal immigrants, and bolstering border enforcement by hiring 25,000 new Border Patrol and ICE agents. Haley also drew attention to the alarming rise in fentanyl-related deaths, emphasizing the link to porous borders and advocating for a more comprehensive solution beyond just building a physical barrier.
Revisiting her commitment to family values, Haley underscored the inseparable nature of her role as a mother with her responsibilities as a public official. She expressed the significance of faith in her life, encouraging openness about incorporating God into public discourse.
Reflecting on her tenure as governor of South Carolina, Haley recounted the divisive times around the 2015 mass shooting at the Mother Emmanuel AME Church in Charleston. Despite facing criticism for calling a state day of prayer, she believes it had a positive impact and contributed to a different response, emphasizing the importance of faith in fostering unity.
On the contentious issue of abortion, Haley acknowledged the challenges of achieving a federal abortion ban but called for a more humane and empathetic approach to the discussion. She emphasized the need to humanize the issue and find common ground to support both mothers and babies, transcending political divisions.
Addressing her relationship with former President Trump, Haley clarified her position and responded to allegations from his supporters. She highlighted the need for a “new generational leader” and expressed concerns about potential chaos and disarray, suggesting that the country cannot afford four more years of tumult.
Recent polls in New Hampshire indicate that Haley is narrowing the gap with Trump among likely GOP primary voters, showcasing the evolving dynamics within the party as the presidential race unfolds.