As the Republican Party presidential race kicks into full swing, political observers have begun to take notice of one of the surprise contenders – former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley. In last week’s GOP debate, held in South Hampshire, Haley became the target of incoming fire from the other presidential hopefuls as they battled for second place behind front runner Donald Trump.
In Haley’s opening statement, she reaffirmed her commitment to the conservative values that make up core Republican ideals, and called out government regulations that she felt crippled businesses and stifled economic growth. She went on to criticize Trump’s policies, while insisting that the party needed leadership that knows how to effectively weather the coming storm of economic uncertainty.
But it was in the debate’s main showdown that Haley really got to show off her policy chops. She immediately pressed Jeb Bush on the issue of income inequality, reminding viewers that while she understood the importance of free market capitalism, it was her firm belief that the government had a duty to help bridge the economic divide.
She further pushed back against Ben Carson’s plan to repeal Obamacare – which included slashing Medicaid and Medicare spending – citing the need for increased access to health care services for the impoverished population.
The other candidates weren’t so eager to listen to her talking points, however. Ted Cruz took the opportunity to disparage her economic outlook, citing it as “just another example of liberal ideology.” Rand Paul attempted to switch the conversation onto the subject of immigration, but was quickly shut down by Haley who addressed the issue of border control and security.
In the end, it was clear that Haley was the most outspoken candidate of the night. She effectively presented her platform in a concise fashion and stayed true to her writing. Whether or not that will be enough to lift her out of the crowd of Republican hopefuls remains to be seen. But one thing is certain: if another GOP debate takes place, it’s unlikely to be a snooze fest with Nikki Haley in the mix.