DES MOINES, IA — In a recent interview, GOP presidential candidate Nikki Haley expressed confusion over Chris Christie’s candidacy, suggesting it baffles many in the political arena.
Haley, competing actively in early states, pointed out Christie’s near-exclusive focus on New Hampshire and questioned his strategy to defeat Donald Trump. She refrained from advising Christie to withdraw but highlighted the potential risk of his campaign aiding Trump’s success.
“I think it’s left everybody scratching their heads, saying, ‘You know, you say you want to defeat Trump, yet you might be the one person that helps him win?.” Haley said.
Chris Christie’s presidential campaign, marked by persistent attacks on Donald Trump, faces challenges as reflected in national polls. Despite his aggressive stance against Trump, Christie’s approach has not translated into significant support among voters.
His strategy, focusing heavily on criticizing the former president, seems to be faltering, as he struggles to gain traction in a crowded GOP field. The disconnect between his fervent opposition to Trump and his lackluster polling numbers raises questions about the effectiveness of his campaign strategy.
Haley’s remarks were made during the “Closing Arguments” interview series with the Des Moines Register’s Chief Politics Reporter Brianne Pfannenstiel and NBC News Correspondent Dasha Burns, as Iowa’s caucuses draw near. Haley emphasized her commitment to her campaign strategy, underscoring the peculiar position Christie’s candidacy presents in the current political landscape.
The former New Jersey governor strongly believes his ant-Trump cornerstone agenda will get him through the process.
“We have to change our approach towards addiction. If a president is willing to say it’s a disease, not a moral failing, then maybe people will listen. That’s the way I would approach addiction,” Christie said earlier this week.
“I am not running to be vice president,” she added. “I have said that in every way I know possible.”