As Trump’s Influence Wanes, GOP Should Embrace Nikki Haley’s Path

A month ago, many believed that nothing could hinder Donald Trump’s path back to the presidency. However, the political landscape has shifted dramatically since President Biden’s surprising exit from the 2024 race and his endorsement of Vice President Kamala Harris. As a result, Trump is now trailing in the polls.

Harris has emerged as a significant fundraising force, which has raised concerns among Republicans regarding potential repercussions for down-ballot Congressional races. This shift in momentum has reinvigorated Democrats across different elections, with House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) acknowledging that the current polling numbers for Democrats are quite alarming.

The House Majority PAC is now expanding its investments in states like Iowa and Wisconsin, reflecting their optimism. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer has indicated that there is potential for the Democrats to surpass the successes of the previous midterm elections and possibly regain a majority in Congress.

Back in 2016, Trump propelled Republicans to victory, helping them secure both the White House and majorities in both chambers of Congress. However, Trump’s influence seems to have shifted; instead of being a boon, his presence now appears to weigh Republicans down, contributing to losses in both the 2018 midterms and the 2020 presidential election.

Presently, Trump is presenting challenges to the GOP. He has taken on a role reminiscent of an elderly figure struggling with memory issues, often falling back on his well-known tactic of centering discussions on himself while denouncing his adversaries. This behavior has led to what some are calling “Trump fatigue,” with even some of his steadfast supporters beginning to distance themselves.

As Harris’s campaign gains momentum and Trump struggles to maintain a coherent message, Republican leaders like Mike Johnson may need to reconsider their strategies. One approach that could be beneficial is to follow Nikki Haley’s example. Over the past eight years, Haley has skillfully balanced the conflicting factions within the party, maintaining support from traditional conservatives while also appealing to the MAGA base.

Despite challenging Trump in the primaries, the former Governor of South Carolina has built a solid grassroots network and established a valuable fundraising pipeline. She has remained critical of Trump’s political missteps while still advocating for the conservative principles he represents.

Unlike other prominent Republicans like Ted Cruz and Kevin McCarthy, who have faded from the spotlight, Haley is positioning herself as a leading candidate to unite the fractured party once Trump’s influence wanes. Johnson does not need to sever ties with Trump; instead, he could benefit from adopting a similar strategy to Haley’s by occasionally challenging the former president when he strays from effective messaging.

By doing so, Johnson could provide cover for GOP candidates running in competitive districts, minimizing the impact of Trump’s more controversial remarks. Instead of solely boosting Trump’s ego, Johnson should prioritize cultivating grassroots support across the party. Forming an alliance with Haley, who has a robust support network, may be the key to keeping the House in Republican hands and ensuring there is a check on a potential Harris administration.

Trump’s current approach reveals his unwillingness to fully embrace talent available within the party, such as Haley. Though close allies like Lindsey Graham advocate for her involvement, Trump has yet to incorporate her into his team. To gain her support, Trump may need to offer her a Cabinet position, but this has not happened thus far.

If Trump is genuinely committed to winning, he should heed the lessons of past leaders and consider integrating his rivals into his administration.

Haley, meanwhile, should capitalize on her growing influence while Trump appears to decline in popularity. Her strategic positioning is crucial—regardless of Trump’s potential reelection, he may find himself constrained in power with the likelihood of a minority Republican Congress.

By focusing on her investments in Johnson and House races, Haley can build support for her anticipated 2028 bid. If Trump seeks her assistance, she should secure a commitment for a key role in his administration. Having Haley as Secretary of State could even lure some hesitant conservative voters back to his camp.

While Trump maintains strong control over the Republican Party, this dominance may not be sufficient for him to win the election or support candidates in tight races. With Harris injecting a sense of optimism into the race, the GOP may need to recalibrate its strategy and take a cue from Haley’s successful tactics.

Source: Nexstar Media, Inc.