Koch Network Backs Nikki Haley in Presidential Bid Against Trump

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Nikki Haley, aiming to challenge Donald Trump in the GOP primary, has gained a significant boost with the formal endorsement of Americans for Prosperity (AFP), the influential political wing of the Koch network. Announced on Tuesday, this endorsement brings with it a promise of nationwide activist support and substantial financial resources to strengthen Haley’s campaign.

Emily Seidel, President and CEO of AFP, in a memo, expressed the organization’s commitment to Haley’s candidacy, citing her potential to lead America into a new political chapter. Seidel praised Haley’s ability to address major national challenges and ensure a prosperous future for the country. She also highlighted AFP’s extensive grassroots and data capabilities, which are now at Haley’s disposal.

This support addresses one of Haley’s key strategic weaknesses: a lack of sufficient ground manpower in key primary states. As the former United Nations ambassador gains momentum in polls, the organizational power of the Koch network, renowned for its network of conservative activists and volunteers, will be a valuable asset to her campaign. This summer and fall, AFP activists have already engaged with six million primary voters through direct communication.

The endorsement also deals a significant setback to Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, who has been struggling to position himself as the main alternative to Trump in the 2024 GOP primary. Despite the Koch network’s efforts, including running ads in early primary states questioning Trump’s electability against Biden, Trump continues to lead in the polls.

Seidel announced that AFP would now refocus its resources on bolstering Haley’s primary and general election campaigns. This includes strategic advertising, mailers, and voter contact through their vast network of activists. Moreover, the organization aims to mobilize general election voters, who typically abstain from primaries, to support Haley.

In response to the endorsement, Trump campaign spokesperson Steven Cheung criticized Americans for Prosperity, labeling it as part of the “China-first, America-last movement.” Cheung dismissed the endorsement, asserting that no amount of opposition would hinder Trump’s campaign.

The DeSantis camp also reacted, with spokesman Andrew Romeo sarcastically congratulating Trump on securing the Koch endorsement. He criticized the Koch network’s alignment with Haley, suggesting it inadvertently aids Trump’s campaign.

Despite these criticisms, the Koch network remains convinced of Haley’s potential to outperform both Trump and Biden. Michael Palmer, a senior adviser, pointed to Haley’s growing momentum in recent polls, emphasizing the increasing voter engagement in states like Iowa and New Hampshire.

Haley expressed her gratitude for the AFP’s support, framing the election as a crucial choice between differing political and economic ideologies. She stressed the urgency of the situation and her readiness to lead with AFP’s support.

Meg Kinnard, an AP writer based in Columbia, South Carolina, also contributed to this report.

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More about Nikki Haley Endorsement

• Nikki Haley’s Presidential Campaign Endorsement
• GOP Primary 2024: The Koch Network’s Role
• Trump Campaign Response to Haley Endorsement
• Ron DeSantis and the 2024 GOP Primary
• Americans for Prosperity’s Campaign Strategy