Nikki Haley

Trump, 77, took to his Truth Social account to criticize Haley, questioning her presidential capabilities and spreading unfounded "birther" claims. He falsely suggested she was ineligible for the presidency due to her parents' citizenship status at her birth. Despite constitutional provisions stating that a natural-born citizen can be president, Trump persisted with this misinformation.

Speaking at a rally in Concord on Friday ahead of the New Hampshire nominating contest, Trump voiced his opinion on the former South Carolina Governor, who secured a third-place finish in Iowa, stating that she is "OK, but she is not presidential timber."

Recent polls indicate a tie between Trump and Haley in New Hampshire, each polling at 40 percent. New Hampshire Governor Chris Sununu has endorsed Haley, further emphasizing the competitive dynamics within the state.

In an interview with CBS News, Haley expressed her determination to secure the top position and emphasized that she has never played for a second position.

The two-time South Carolina Governor and former UN ambassador officially launched her presidential bid on February 15, emphasizing her Indian heritage. However, leaders of prominent Indian-American groups have reported unsuccessful attempts to engage the Haley campaign for events at temples, town hall-style gatherings, or house parties.

Both agree that Trump's legal troubles, spanning from civil tax fraud in New York to election subversion cases in four jurisdictions, could prove detrimental to the GOP's chances of reclaiming the White House.

While DeSantis and Haley face an uphill battle against Trump in Iowa, they view a strong second-place finish as pivotal in positioning themselves as the primary challengers to Trump's 2024 nomination.

Haley’s remarks about the Civil War, focusing on government control and individual freedoms rather than slavery, drew criticism.

Previously indicating support for Trump in the 2024 race, even if convicted, Haley now emphasizes the need to prioritize what is right for the country over personal sentiments. Endorsed by New Hampshire Governor Chris Sununu, Haley gains momentum in the presidential race.

Despite DeSantis' strategic campaigning across Iowa's counties, Trump's lead remains robust. The outcome of Iowa's Republican caucuses on January 15 could significantly impact the race for the GOP presidential nomination.