2024 Presidential Campaign Blog

Statement from Francis Suarez "While I have decided to suspend my campaign for President, my commitment to making this a better nation for every American remains."

Statement from Francis Suarez

"Running for President of the United States has been one of the greatest honors of my life. This country has given so much to my family and me. The prospect of giving back at the highest levels of public service is a motivator if not a calling. Throughout this process, I have met so many freedom-loving Americans who care deeply about our nation, her people, and its future. It was a privilege to come so close to appearing on stage with the other candidates at last week’s first debate.

I had looked forward to sharing the story of Miami, America’s most successful city, especially at a time when so many cities are plagued with poverty, unemployment, high taxes, violent crime, and homelessness. I know what we have achieved during my tenure leading the City of Miami can be replicated in every community in our great country. The next President must play a major role in getting America's cities back on track to safety, prosperity and a better quality of life for all.

While I have decided to suspend my campaign for President, my commitment to making this a better nation for every American remains. 

I will continue to amplify the voices of the Hispanic community - the fastest-growing voting group in our country. The Left has taken Hispanics for granted for far too long, and it is no surprise that so many are finding a home in America’s conservative movement. Our party must continue doing more to include and attract this vibrant community that believes in our country’s foundational values: faith, family, hard work and freedom. Younger voters, Independents, urban voters and suburban women- all of whom I've carried in previous elections - among others, should find a comfortable home in the GOP and its policies. 

The current Administration is failing our country. Inflation remains high, elevated interest rates are punishing young Americans, the southern border is wide open, crime is rising, and our enemies and adversaries are growing bolder and stronger. We deserve better.

I look forward to keeping in touch with the other Republican presidential candidates and doing what I can to make sure our party puts forward a strong nominee who can inspire and unify the country, renew Americans’ trust in our institutions and in each other, and win.”

Donald J. Trump Grows Iowa’s Farmers for Trump Coalition

President Donald J. Trump Grows Iowa’s Farmers for Trump Coalition

Bedminster, NJ – Today, President Donald J. Trump added over 100 members to the Farmers for Trump Coalition announced last month in Iowa. Demonstrating the overwhelming support for President Trump in the Hawkeye State, these farmers and agriculture leaders serve as the bedrock of many of Iowa’s rural communities and will help propel President Trump to a decisive Iowa Caucus win on January 15.

“I am thrilled to be joined by thousands of Iowans who know that President Donald Trump is the only candidate who will reverse the disastrous policies of the Biden Administration, fight for America’s agriculture community, and once again put our nation’s farmers first,” stated Representative Derek Wulf, a farmer and Vice Chairman of the House Agriculture Committee. “President Trump protected Iowa’s critical ethanol industry, opened international markets for our agriculture products, stopped China from taking advantage of our farming communities, and battled federal bureaucrats seeking to restrict the rights of landowners.”

With less than 5 months until the Iowa Caucuses, President Trump is dominating the Republican primary race. The Des Moines Register’s poll released last week shows President Trump with a commanding 23-point lead in the First-in-the-Nation Iowa contest.

Iowa Farmers for Trump Leadership

Representative Mike Sexton, Farmer and Chairman of the House Agriculture Committee, Story County
Representative Bobby Kaufmann, Farmer and Chairman of House Appropriations Committee, Cedar County
Representative Derek Wulf, Farmer and Vice Chairman of the House Agriculture Committee, Cedar County
Representative Heather Hora, Farmer and member of the House Agriculture Committee, Washington County
The Hon. David Kerr, Farmer and former Iowa Representative
Jeremy Davis, former senior official at the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Story County

Iowa Farmers for Trump

Shawn Adam, Wapello County
Ray Arp, Muscatine County
Laura Ausdemore, Harrison County
Dennis Ausdemore, Harrison County
Becky Bartenhagen, Muscatine County
Carl Beatty, Muscatine County
Keith Bentley, Pottawattamie County
Andy Bernhard, Kossuth County
Gary Birkley, Calhoun County
Mike Bixler, Cedar County
Trent Blair, Calhoun County
Myron Brenner, Emmet County
Nancy Brenner, Emmet County
Darin Burco, Buchanan County
Jordyn Burco, Buchanan County
Colin Corey, Calhoun County
Lawrence Dainels, Iowa County
Evan Deal, Kossuth County
Rich Deal, Kossuth County
Ed DeNeve, Iowa County
Jared Denny, Clinton County
Donald DeRycke, Iowa County
Randall Eichelberger, Muscatine County
Holly Eichmann, Kossuth County
Jim Fairchild, Keokuk County
Russell Fischels, Keokuk County
Dennis Goodell, Pocahontas County
Mike Gooder, Howard County
Rachel Gooder, Howard County
John Guinan, Carroll County
Pam Hartwig, Cedar County
Kevin Hartwig, Cedar County
Austin Hayek, Webster County
Gary Hilby, Delaware County
Linda Hilby, Delaware County
Jesse Hilby, Delaware County
Kurt Hora, Washington County
Matt Hormann, Cedar County
Dave Howrey, Calhoun County
Judy Howrey, Calhoun County
Doug Jacobs, Jones County
Harold Joseph, Iowa County
Karen Joseph, Iowa County
Steve Kaufmann, Cedar County
Dave Kerr, Pottawattamie County
Brody Koehn, Keokuk County
Patty Lally, Crawford County
Jan Larson, Iowa County
Don Larson, Iowa County
Matt Lautner, Dallas County
Dave Lemke, Guthrie County
Justin Lichtey, Black Hawk County
Dustin Marolf, Cedar County
Chuck McCullough, Wayne County
Steve Mohr, Calhoun County
Jean Mohr, Calhoun County
Bradley Moretz, Worth County
Adam Morgan, Cedar County
Mary Lee Neff, Muscatine County
Franz Neff, Muscatine County
Jacqueline Nelson, Pottawattamie County
Bill Norton, Cedar County
John Pearson, Floyd County
Thomas Pecinovsky, Howard County
Bret Pellett, Cass County
Jay Peterson, Fayette County
Russell Peterson, Clinton County
Bob Pitt, Pottawattamie County
Kevin Poen, Calhoun County
Lynn Poen, Calhoun County
Geri Pribyl, Crawford County
Bert Refsell, Emmet County
Kitty Rehberg, Buchanan County
Frank Rehberg, Buchanan County
Dan Rewoldt, Buchanan County
Paula Robinson, Delaware County
Tom Robinson, Linn County
Laura Robinson, Linn County
Ryan Rogis, Clinton County
Ty Rosburg, Crawford County
Joel Sailer, Crawford County
Owen Sandbulte, Sioux County
Brent Schroeder, Greene County
Michael Swager, Jackson County
Murray Shedeck, Clinton County
Brent Smith, Clinton County
Scott Smith, Clinton County
Kirby Soukup, Palo Alto County
Richard Taylor, Appanoose County
Kim Timmerman, Cedar County
Kerri Timmerman, Cedar County
Quintin Towe, Benton County
Kaiyla Wacha, Tama County
Nancy Weaver, Poweshiek County
David Weaver, Poweshiek County
Chris Weber, Buchanan County
Kate West, Linn County
Jim West, Linn County
Todd Williams, Pottawattamie County
Taten Williams, Pottawattamie County
Nadine Wright, Crawford County
Derek Young, Emmet County

Republican National Committee (RNC) Announces Houston as Host City for 2028 Convention

RNC Announces Houston as Host City for 2028 Convention

MILWAUKEE – Today, the Republican National Committee (RNC) officially selected the city of Houston, Texas as the host for the 2028 Republican National Convention. RNC Committee Members voted to select Houston as the host city.

"I am excited to announce Houston as the host city for the 2028 Republican National Convention,” said RNC Charwoman Ronna McDaniel. “ After a smart business decision made by the RNC last spring to allow us to select the next convention city earlier than ever, we are looking forward to seeing Houston in the spotlight come 2028. The entire RNC membership is eager to work with Governor Greg Abbott, Mayor Sylvester Turner, the Houston Host Committee, and Houston First Corporation to follow in Milwaukee’s footsteps by delivering an incredible convention for our Party.”

“I am proud to welcome the 2028 Republican National Convention to Houston — one of the fastest-growing cities in the United States, a thriving center of economic development, and a cultural leader of Texas,” said Governor Greg Abbott. “Houston showcases all the things that make Texas great: a strong business environment, record-breaking job growth, and a hub of entertainment and tourism. Texas thanks Chairwoman McDaniel and the RNC for choosing Houston to host the 2028 convention.”

"Houston is a special events city; we know how to host a major convention. We are proud to be chosen as the site for the 2028 Republican National Convention. This keeps us on the global stage, allowing us to showcase our amazing venues and the people who keep our hotels, restaurants, and local businesses operating," said Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner. "As the nation's most diverse and inclusive city, we believe Houston represents the future of the United States and our aspirations as a country. We're excited to showcase that identity and Houston's unsurpassed hospitality. We thank the RNC for selecting Houston to host the 2028 Republican National Convention."

“This is a unique and exciting opportunity for Houston and for Texas,” Ira Mitzner, Chair of the Houston RNC Bid Committee, said. “A lot of hard work over the past year went into securing this bid and I’m elated that the effort has been rewarded with what will be an enormously important event that will have a tremendous economic impact and give Houston a global platform.”

“Today’s announcement is a historic step for the Republican Party, and the beginning of a successful partnership between the city of Houston, the state of Texas, and the Republican National Committee. Republicans will stand united in Houston in 2028 as we execute a memorable convention in the Lone Star State,” said RNC Site Selection Committee Chair Anne Hathaway.

“We were able to showcase our community’s leadership, our dynamic convention campus and our team’s professionalism to the RNC, and we believe that’s why they chose Houston for their most important event,” said Houston First Corporation President and CEO Michael Heckman. “When we began this bid process more than a year ago, we did so knowing that winning the Republican National Convention would be a significant economic win for our city and an opportunity for Houston to shine. Now we look forward to making that opportunity a reality.”

Tim Scott Pledges To Renew American Strength In New Ads

Tim Scott Pledges To Renew American Strength In New Ads

"I'll be the President who ends the Biden retreat and leads the charge for American strength." - Tim Scott

CHARLESTON, SC - Tim Scott launched new ads today ahead of his post-debate early state swing to New Hampshire, Iowa, and his home state of South Carolina. The ads highlight the consequences of Biden's policies on everyday Americans as Tim shares his message to renew American strength.

'Tragic' airs in New Hampshire today honing in on the fentanyl crisis that has impacted thousands of Americans.
'Lead the Charge' airs in Iowa. Tim lays out how he’ll end the Biden retreat.

WATCH: Tragic

TRAGIC TRANSCRIPT:
SCOTT: I'm at our southern border to send a message to the radical Left.

Biden's liberal policies aren't compassionate. They're tragic.

Teenagers overdosing on fentanyl. Young women being sold by human traffickers. Violent crime on the rise.

As Commander in Chief, I will eliminate Biden's 87,000 IRS agents and use that money to finish the wall and double the border patrol.

I'm Tim Scott and I approve this message because we must secure this border now.

WATCH: Lead The Charge

LEAD THE CHARGE TRANSCRIPT:
SCOTT: Joe Biden is out of step and out of ideas.

He has law enforcement retreating from our border and our neighborhood streets.

And America retreating from our deepest held values.

I'll be the President who ends the Biden retreat and leads the charge for American strength.

I'll build the wall, fund our police, and defend our God-given freedoms.

I'm Tim Scott and I approve this message because I have faith in America and our president should too.

Release: What They Are Saying: “He is planting punches against the left.” “A clear winner.” “He hit for the cycle.” “Tremendously effective.”

What They Are Saying: “He is planting punches against the left.” “A clear winner.” “He hit for the cycle.” “Tremendously effective.”

Last night, Ron DeSantis was the clear winner and proved that he is ready to beat Joe Biden and serve as America’s 47th president. Even the Washington Post’s Snap Poll of the debate found that Ron DeSantis won the debate. Here is some more of what they are saying.

Kayleigh McEnany: A lot of people said Governor DeSantis won the debate and that was a takeaway. One that stood out to me 22-year-old boater who said to quote her home after the debate, the work was done for Ron DeSantis before he walked into the debate, making a comment on his conservative record and steadiness to deliver his points. Right out of the gate in 15 seconds he landed Joe Biden and punch after punch against Joe Biden. So while this is going on he is planting punches against the left. He will get a phrase if number 2 more personal touch.

Joe Concha: I see Washington Post, FiveThirtyEight has a new poll out, ‘Who won the debate?’ Ron DeSantis was the winner according to the poll.

Emily Compagno : I thought DeSantis’ sort-of-measured approach to that to take a step back really did bode well. I will say he is the only candidate with mentioning the voters by name. And in that montage, he personally is not only himself but the issues. It was tremendously effective in the conversation about abortion, not to mention the most wonderful thing he ever heard was his oldest daughter’s heartbeat. To draw on the voters’ experiences personally, which means every one of those 50 million can gnomic Americans watching felt a special connection and if they were to say something to him that they would remember him. The impact on the statistics. I thought he was tremendously effective that way.

Jason Chaffetz: I like steady. I like principle. And that is why I really liked what Governor Ron DeSantis had to say and how he said it. Not only was he personal, but he also talked about – I love the fact he is the only person on that stage that is military experience. When he talked about foreign policy in China and the border, he is doing so with personal experience having served in the United States military.

Jeanine Piro: One thing that I heard that I thought was interesting was DeSantis saying he would send in special forces into Mexico. Look, we have an idea where the drugs are coming from, obviously and where how they're getting into the United States. We've I mean, we're smart enough to deal with that we deal with it in other countries, you certainly should be able to deal with it on our own border. And I think that DeSantis unlike most of the people on the stage, has actually dealt with not the border per se, but the consequences where he ends up sending the immigrants of their state.”

Congressman Mike Gallagher: Governor DeSantis in particular was great on the southern border issue. He was aggressive, he put forward a vision.

Larry Kudlow: I like DeSantis, DeSantis said he fired some local attorneys, some local prosecutors, I thought that was good.

Kayleigh McEnany : As a voter, it was refreshing to be able to watch a debate about the issues. That’s what we got last night. Who was most behooved by the debate? I think Ron DeSantis. Just reaching out to some conservatives I know across the nation, many of whom are Trump supporters and remain Trump supporters, but who do you like? Ron DeSantis was the take away. They loved the fact, as one 22-year-old in that focus group said, the work was done for Ron DeSantis before he walked in to the room. He has perhaps the best conservative record of any governor in the nation. Although I’d say Glenn Youngkin is also in that category. He showed that. He didn’t get involved in the frays. The frays helped him because it might have knocked some people off of the edges of the stage... but he wasn’t in the frays. He was able to level punches against not Trump, but the ultimate opponent, which is Joe Biden. He also showed a more personal touch, which is a critique of Ron DeSantis, which I think will help him.

Fox News Voter Panel Part 1:
KEVIN: Something about DeSantis that he’s very much touting his background and what he’s accomplished in Florida. Yesterday I saw a lot of people talking about what they will do once they get into office, DeSantis said I've done it in Florida and I’ll do it on a national level. To me someone that has the accomplishments, there it really resonates with me.
DENISE: I went in leaning DeSantis. And I still am for DeSantis. And one of the issues that he brought up doesn't seem like a big issue. But he talked about bringing civics back into education. If we're going to get our country back, people have to understand what the Bill of Rights provides us, what the Constitution provides us.
CHRIS: I came in very open to Governor DeSantis. I left feeling stronger about that opinion. And I agree with Denise, you know, he was talking about things and like I said yesterday, we need to present a candidate that is talking about the future is talking about the issues that people want to know their policy position, not only what they would, what their public policy position is, but how they're going to do it and what they're going to get done. I think Governor DeSantis did that really, really well.
Fox News Voter Panel Part 2:
ELIZABETH: I think the strongest performer in terms of who will do well in the general election, who will do well with the most Republicans is actually Ron DeSantis. I think he has the experience. I think the work was done for him before he walked into the debate. He had an answer for the natural disasters that are happening, the tough on crime policies that he has to enact, that he's already enacted, that he can prove to all the viewers and all the Republicans who were maybe undecided, I think that was perhaps solidified last night.
ED: He came across as charismatic. He came across a strong character, projected strength and confidence. And to me, that was a big takeaway.
KEVIN: Yeah, I think Ron DeSantis still. He's leading in the polls. And I just think he's the only one with the experience and the recent exposure that he's gotten over COVID and the last couple years, so I think he's really the only one. He's just got the experience.
CHRIS: I think he had to present himself as a viable alternative to Trump, and I think he was able to do that. I think he showed what he’s done in Florida, he can replicate for the country. I think he showed that he’s electable and again I think he showed that has to be the most important thing as a Republican voter that we’re concerned about, that we nominate a candidate that can beat the Democrats.
DENISE: DeSantis. Again, I'm all about action plans, that's what I said yesterday, and he presented action plans and how he would solve some issues. And he has already done some.
DANA: Can Ron DeSantis win in Wisconsin in 2024?
DENISE: Yes.
CHRIS: I believe he can.

Fox Business Voter Panel:
HOST: Based on what you saw last night, who's your favorite candidate right now and why Marie, start with you?
MARIE: I would say Ron DeSantis. He has shown that he has done the job through COVID, keeping the schools open and working with the border. So he has a proven track record.

Phil Cox: I think he was a clear winner. He spoke directly to the American people, he prosecuted the case against Joe Biden, he talked about the need to reverse this American decline. And he focused on his record in Florida. So you know, he's making great progress, where it matters in the early primary states. He's back in Iowa. He's already hit 38 of the 99 counties. He's got 11,000 folks that are committed to caucus for him. And I think there's great momentum on the ground.

Governor DeSantis’ Baseball Coach John Stuper: To put it in baseball terms: his team won 10 to nothing. He hit for the cycle. He made a great catch in the outfield, and he threw a guy out at home. I don't think anybody was close to him, to be honest with you... I mean, he has it he has a record to run on. People forget that Florida is the 15th largest economy in the world, not just the United States. It's the 15th largest economy in the world, and he's done an amazing job down here. People loved him down here... But I just thought he, I thought he killed it last night absolutely killed it.

Hal Lambert: I think one of the key takeaways is he was the winner of the debate. And he was able to get his message out and talk about things to millions of people that have never heard him speak. I think, you know, talking about the fact that he's the only veteran on the stage and understands what it's like to serve overseas. He volunteered and went into the Navy. And his message on the economy in the border.

National Spokeswoman Carly Atchison There was one candidate on that stage who sounded presidential that was Ron DeSantis. He kept pointing back to his record, which nobody can argue with. That's probably why nobody wanted to try and take a shot at him is because there's nothing to take a shot at. He pointed to a 50-year, low crime rate in the state of Florida, he had to correct Bret bear on that. He pointed to the action he would take on day one at the border. He pointed to the fact that he is the only one who has taken action to remove two politically motivated prosecutors as governor. And so look, at the end of the day, there was one candidate who was focused, who presented not just a talking point or a vision, he has an actual plan. And he has a record that he's telling the American people don't just believe what I say believe what I've done in Florida. I think the American people will respond to that very well.

Phil Cox: I think he was a clear winner. He had a great night. It was an incredibly powerful moment that you just played. Look, you have the ability to speak directly to the American people talk about how we're going to reverse this American decline introduce himself as the only veteran in the race and a champion of freedom. As you said, somebody who stood up to Dr. Fauci stood up to the Soros back prosecutors kept the state free open. It's now the number one economy of any state in the country. So it's great night and he's on the ground in Iowa. The momentum continues.

Release: What They Are Saying: “Governor DeSantis was solid.” “Won the debate.” “He was presidential.” “Crisp and aggressive throughout.”

What They Are Saying: “Governor DeSantis was solid.” “Won the debate.” “He was presidential.” “Crisp and aggressive throughout.”

New Hampshire Governor Chris Sununu on CNN: DeSantis did very well... He got to look right in the camera, make a strong case do exactly what he needed to do. He, I think sure shored up his conservative credentials, if you will, he looked presidential.

Erick Erickson on NewsNation: HOST: In your opinion, Eric, who walked away a winner last night?

ERICKSON: I think DeSantis did because no one took him out. He stayed above the fray. He answered the questions kind of led the stage to a degree there from the center, refusing that one point to raise his hand on climate change.

New Hampshire Governor Chris Sununu on CNBC: That Governor DeSantis’ opportunity. He looked right in the camera, he was clear, he was concise, I think he looked very presidential. He wasn’t being attacked and that have him a lane to really make his case directly.”

Brian Kilmeade on Fox News' Fox & Friends: Governor DeSantis was solid. I think the most pressure going in was on Governor DeSantis shoulders.

Mark Levin: The most loathsome hosts and reporters are desperate for the GOP candidates to try to destroy DeSantis. That tells you something.

Stuart Varney on Fox Business: Here’s my take from the leading candidates of the debate. DeSantis: strong and forceful.

Mary Katherine Ham in Outkick: DeSantis had the most striking moment of the first half of the debate when he short-circuited a raise-your-hands question on man-made climate change with the retort, “We are not schoolchildren,” before launching into his experience being on the ground dealing with natural disasters. That pivot would preview DeSantis’ strategy throughout the debate. Paraphrased, it goes something like this: “Gimme a topic, any topic. Yeah, I did that thing. Let me tell you what I did. It happened in Florida. Results.”

Howard Kurtz in Fox News Digital: DeSantis helps himself the most … Ron DeSantis was crisp and aggressive throughout.

May Mailman on Fox Business’ Mornings with Maria: I think that Ron DeSantis actually met or even exceeded expectations and those expectations were sky high. SI think people say he dodged some questions, yeah, he answered the question that he wanted to, which is, 'I have a record in Florida. Look what I have done. I'm not just words, I've actually done stuff.' And so to answer that question, to point to his record is not dodging the question, it is showing what he would do as a president. And I thought that he did a better job than expected and therefore he, I would say, won the debate.

Rob Smith on Fox News' Fox & Friends: Ron DeSantis is really the only one who can point to actual legislation and actual things he did to combat woke stuff. He is really strong on that.

Retired NYPD Paul Mauro on Fox News' Fox & Friends:: I would argue Ron DeSantis has the best record to run on here. He can point to a couple of prosecutors he got out of office.

Campaign Manager James Uthmeier on Fox News Radio: We're very excited about how the night went. I think without a doubt, Ron DeSantis was the winner last night. He shined above the rest of the field as there were fights and spats and back and forths. He was the only one that looked like a president, that showed a vision for the future of the country that will stop American decline. I think the New York Post headlines said it best last night that he was indeed the winner and he proved himself to be the only candidate that can be both Donald Trump and Joe Biden.

Congressman Chip Roy on Fox News' Hannity: I'm proud to endorse Ron DeSantis. And I think tonight, he showed why he's the clear leader. I think he was the clear winner of the debate. He was speaking directly to the American people. He showed how his track record in Florida is something that the American people can get behind, because they're frankly, sick of the noise. There's a lot of noise on that stage. There's a lot of bickering and talking to each other. Ron DeSantis was the guy who was standing up there as a guy who served in the military who demonstrated how you would use that to be commander in chief, and showed that he believes that this is a country in decline, and that the Florida blueprint will provide a path for us to get this country back.

Deputy Campaign Manager David Polyansky on Meet the Press Now: That's exactly what we hoped for and more. Governor DeSantis stepped to the pay the stage tonight and he delivered a bit a win a win on the debate stage because he looked presidential, he acted presidential. More importantly, he painted a vision for the country that he will drive home as our next president, and we couldn't be happier.

Christian Whiton in Daily Caller: DeSantis in particular reminded voters how the next fourteen months can be about fighting the Left with new ideas about governance and defining America’s future as opposed to relitigating Trump’s 2020 loss to Joe Biden, whether fair or not, and other matters of the past. He alone combined aspiration with accomplishment.

National Spokeswoman Carly Atchsion on Newsmax's Wake Up America: I think Ron DeSantis made a really strong case for why he's prepared, how he's the best candidate to defeat Joe Biden reverse this nation's decline. You saw somebody who was mission focused--He's the only veteran in this race--make his case to the American people. You saw him point out the reality that under the Trump administration, when we needed leadership the most, the reigns were handed over to DC bureaucrats like Dr. Anthony Fauci, who ran this country into the ground and locked us down for years, which was devastating for American families. Ron DeSantis had a great night, he was presidential, he rose above the fray, he made his case to the American people. It was a great night.

Pete Snyder on Fox News’ Ingraham Angle: When we had the worst calamity that hit our country since World War Two, the only leader in America who stood up and opened up our economy and fought for small business and fought for freedom was Ron DeSantis. Hands down. You just said it. President Trump allowed the bureaucrats and the CDC and Tony Fauci to take over America. And that wouldn't happen under Ron DeSantis. He's fought for our economy, fought to make sure that small businesses were opened in Florida and that students were back in the classroom and that's what we'll do for America: fight.

Release: Morning After: Nikki Haley Doesn't Back Down to Bullies

Morning After: Nikki Haley Doesn't Back Down to Bullies

MILWAUKEE, WI — Last night, there is no denying Nikki Haley left a lasting impression with the American people. She was tough, principled, and unafraid to throw a punch.
Here’s what people are saying:

Post and Courier: GOP debate takeaways: Nikki Haley finds her moment, Tim Scott gets drowned out

Washington Examiner: Republican debate: Nikki Haley claimed the spotlight among crowd of 'screaming men'

Fox News: If Ramaswamy was the biggest loser of the night, Haley was the biggest winner. Tough on national security and securing the border, smart about education, she was also the only candidate to stake out a winning position on abortion.

Brian Kilmeade, Co-anchor, Fox & Friends: I thought Nikki Haley stole the show… She was confident, working it on all sides…

SE Cupp, CNN: Nikki Haley promised generational change and delivered

Rich Lowry, National Review: Nikki Haley came to play. She outshone fellow South Carolinian Tim Scott, who just didn’t make himself a factor. She was forceful from her first answer on Trump and spending to the aforementioned exchange with Vivek, which brought people to their feet.

Hugh Hewitt, Salem Radio Network: You have no foreign policy experience and it shows.@NikkiHaley lands the big punch of the night.

Ingrid Jacques, USA Today: Former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley should also get a bump following her excellent takes on finding a consensus on abortion and defending our allies internationally. She also called out Democrats and Republicans alike for out-of-control spending that is harming the future of the country.

The State: SC's Haley takes fiery swings at first GOP debate as Scott flies under the radar

Ainsley Earhardt, co-host of Fox & Friends: I thought Nikki Haley just knocked it out of the park.

USA Today: DeSantis stumbles and Haley soars at first GOP debate without Trump

Brett Barker, Nevada, IA mayor, CNN: Out of all the candidates, she really had moments that stood out…she came across as poised and confident, prepared. Out of the candidates, she helped herself the most.

Guy Benson: Just left a debate watch event with a few hundred conservative Wisconsin voters. I asked for some show-of-hands responses, then worked the room for more context and color. A few takeaways: Notable positive response for Nikki Haley, especially from women

McClatchy DC: Nikki Haley had a good night. She spoke truth, commanded the stage when making her points, and was not afraid to lock horns with her peers on issues of critical importance to Republican primary voters. She stood out, which is exactly what she needed to do, said Jimmy Centers, an Iowa-based GOP operative

Jennifer Nassour, former MA GOP chair: Again…no one compares. Competency matters; leadership matters; intellect matters; experience matters; compassion matters….let’s go! 👠🤜🏼 #TeamHaley

Abby Phillip, CNN: Nikki Haley’s whole mantra is I don’t back down to bullies.

Kevin Madden: Haley with the breakout moment.

Alyssa Farah Griffin, CNN: She showed up like she came to play and actually run against Donald Trump.

Chuck Todd, NBC: Nikki Haley was the first candidate who actually started debating other candidates.

Kellyanne Conway, FOX News: I think Nikki is going to get a second look from some people based on some stuff she said tonight.

Even liberals are terrified of running against Nikki Haley…

David Axelrod, CNN: Nikki Haley had an excellent night. She was very strong.

Chris Hayes, MSNBC: Who would seem the most formidable as a Republican nominee? Nikki Haley.

Michael Steele, MSNBC: Do you look like someone that the country, at the end of the day, can say, I can see him in the Oval Office? Tonight, the only person who struck that chord for me was Nikki Haley. She was the only one who took risks that none of the others would take… she stepped out in a way that the others did not. And they actually looked smaller in her presence.

Release: Mike Pence Debate Night Roundup

MIKE PENCE DEBATE NIGHT ROUNDUP

WSJ: CANDIDATES: PENCE WAS RIGHT TO REJECT TRUMP'S JAN. 6 ELECTION EFFORTS

"The candidates were asked if former Vice President Mike Pence did the right thing on Jan. 6, 2021, when he certified the 2020 presidential election despite former President Donald Trump’s efforts to overturn the election."

FOX NEWS: HALEY CALLS FOR 'CONSENSUS' ON ISSUE OF ABORTION, AS PENCE SAYS THAT IS 'THE OPPOSITE OF LEADERSHIP'

"Former Amb. Nikki Haley and former Vice President Mike Pence went head-to-head on the issue of abortion Wednesday night, with Haley calling for "consensus" on the issue and Pence firing back that would be "the opposite of leadership."

POLITICO: PENCE TO RAMASWAMY: 'WE DON'T NEED TO BRING IN A ROOKIE'

"Former Vice President Mike Pence laid into fellow presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy, saying that “we don’t need to bring in a rookie” like Ramaswamy as the Republican nominee."

POLITICO: PENCE'S RIVALS DEFEND HIM OVER JAN. 6: 'MIKE DID HIS DUTY'

GOP presidential candidates were faced with a key question Wednesday night: Did Mike Pence do the right thing on Jan. 6?

“Absolutely,” Sen. Tim Scott (R-S.C.) said, who was the first candidate to answer the question.

USA TODAY: VIVEK RAMASWAMY, MIKE PENCE, SPAR OVER OUTSIDER VS. EXPERIENCE AT FIRST RNC DEBATE

Vivek Ramaswamy and former Vice President Mike Pence sparred over an outsider vs. experience at the first Republican presidential debate.

THE HILL: PENCE, RAMASWAMY TANGLE AT DEBATE: 'LET ME EXPLAIN IT TO YOU, VIVEK'

"Former Vice President Mike Pence and biotech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy tangled during the first GOP presidential debate over their credentials, with Pence saying the country doesn’t need “a rookie” leader."

FOX NEWS: MIKE PENCE: US NEEDS STRONGER COMMITMENT TO LAW ENFORCEMENT

"Former Vice President Mike Pence says tax cuts enacted during his and former President Donald Trump’s administration will ‘go away’ if a Republican president is not elected in 2024."

WASHINGTON TIMES: PENCE RIVALS BACK HIS JAN. 6 ACTIONS, DISTANCE THEMSELVES FROM TRUMP'S RIGGED ELECTION CLAIMS

"Former Vice President Mike Pence’s rivals for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination said he did the right thing when he refused to cower under pressure from former President Trump to stop the certification of electoral votes on Jan. 6, 2021."

USA TODAY: VIVEK RAMASWAMY, MIKE PENCE, SPAR OVER OUTSIDER VS. EXPERIENCE AT FIRST RNC DEBATE

"Vivek Ramaswamy and former Vice President Mike Pence sparred over an outsider vs. experience at the first Republican presidential debate."

FOX NEWS: RAMASWAMY, PENCE CLASH AFTER FORMER VP CALLS GOP NEWCOMER A 'ROOKIE': 'THIS ISN'T COMPLICATED'

"Former Vice President Mike Pence and businessman Vivek Ramaswamy were involved in a heated exchange in the first GOP debate Wednesday night over what a president can and can't get done in the White House."

FORBES: 2024 GOP DEBATE; PENCE BLASTS VIVEK RAMASWAMY AS 'ROOKIE' LACKING EXPERIENCE, DESANTIS DERAILS CLIMATE CHANGE QUESTION AS SPARKS FLY

"Former Vice President Mike Pence and biotech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy exchanged insults on the GOP presidential debate stage Wednesday night when Pence attacked his lack of government experience in a back-and-forth that devolved into a discussion about climate change—marking the first moment sparks flew at Republicans’ debut debate for the 2024 election cycle."

WASHINGTON EXAMINER: REPUBLICAN DEBATE: MIKE PENCE AND TIM SCOTT ARE RIGHT: A FEDERAL 15-WEEK ABORTION LAW IS GOOD POLICY

"The first substantive issue on which Republican candidates disagreed in the first GOP debate was abortion. Former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley and current Gov. Doug Burgum (R-ND) opposed a 15-week abortion ban on the federal level, while former Vice President Mike Pence and Sen. Tim Scott (R-SC) supported it."

DAILY MAIL: MIKE PENCE SAYS THERE SHOULD BE A FEDERAL ABORTION BAN IN SPAT WITH NIKKI HALEY: FORMER SOUTH CAROLINA GOVERNOR SAYS WOMEN SHOULD NOT BE JAILED FOR TERMINATING A PREGNANCY AND THERE MUST A 'RESPECTFUL' APPROACH

"Former Vice President Mike Pence and former Gov. Nikki Haley - who are both self-declared 'unapologetically pro-life' - sparred over whether there should be a federal abortion ban during the first Republican debate in Milwaukee."

WASHINGTON TIMES: PENCE CHALLENGES HALEY'S ABORTION 'CONSENSUS' AS 'OPPOSITE OF LEADERSHIP'

"All of the Republican candidates on Wednesday night’s debate stage say they oppose abortion, but their differences on where lines should be drawn became evident on stage."

WASHINGTON EXAMINER: REPUBLICAN DEBATE: ONLY PENCE, HALEY, AND SCOTT UNDERSTAND 2024 IS ABOUT ECONOMY, STUPID

"Of the eight Republican presidential candidates who dared who participate in the first primary debate, only three seemed to understand that the dominant issue of the 2024 election is the cataclysmic state of the economy."

FOX NEWS: HALEY, CHRISTIE AND BURGUM AGREE PENCE DID THE RIGHT THING ON JAN. 6

"GOP presidential candidates Nikki Haley, Chris Christie and Doug Burgum agree that former Vice President Mike Pence did the right thing on January 6 to not send electoral votes back to several states."

EARNINGS GROWTH STINKS: JACK HOUGH

"Panelists Jack Hough, Carleton English and Elizabeth O'Brien break down stock market performance on 'Barron's Roundtable."

THE HILL: GOP CANDIDATES CREDIT PENCE FOR NOT CAVING TO TRUMP ON JAN. 6

"Republican presidential candidates credited former Vice President Mike Pence during the Wednesday debate for not caving to former President Trump in refusing to certify the results of the 2020 presidential election."

FOX NEWS: MIKE PENCE CONFRONTS RAMASWAMY OVER COMMENTS ABOUT CRIME

"Republican presidential contenders Mike Pence and Vivek Ramaswamy spar over whether the United States has an 'identity crisis."

Release: What They Are Saying: “Ron DeSantis was winner of the first 2024 Republican debate — man best suited to unseat Trump”

What They Are Saying: “Ron DeSantis was winner of the first 2024 Republican debate — man best suited to unseat Trump”

New York Post: Ron DeSantis was winner of the first 2024 Republican debate — man best suited to unseat Trump

Lanhee Chen: “I think DeSantis’ camp can claim victory because he came out of this essentially I think as well position if not better position.”

Ari Fleischer: “Ron DeSantis had the strongest night of any of the candidates on stage."

Sean Hannity: “I thought Governor DeSantis came off well, and came off strong, and made his case.”

Howard Kurtz: “Ron DeSantis did the most to help his candidacy tonight. He was forceful and aggressive from the very beginning.”

Piers Morgan: DeSantis getting stronger as the debate goes on, especially when he bigs up his undeniably successful record in Florida. #Debate

Katie Pavlich: DeSantis vows again to use lethal force against cartels on the border. Excellent.

Rebecca Heinrichs: This is the issue where Ron DeSantis is the most enthusiastic, this is the issue that really enlivens him, and he gets passionate about. Going much further than previous president he wants to use military force against cartels. This really was a breakout moment.

Jason Rantz: “I think DeSantis had the best answer when it came to crime he had something specific that he could point to that he’s already done that explains how he would take charge as President.”

Rich Lowry: He got all his points in, came back constantly to his theme of reversing American decline, and received lots of applause. So, he had a good night when he needed one.

Release: Post Show: Nikki Haley Wins the Debate

Post Show: Nikki Haley Wins the Debate

MILWAUKEE, WI — The post-debate analysis is in: Nikki Haley won the night with her toughness and principled command of the issues. Here’s what people are saying:

Print
Washington Examiner: Republican debate: Nikki Haley wins and it's not particularly close

Politico Magazine: You want some instant analysis? Okay: Nikki Haley is an effective debater.

Washington Examiner: Republican debate: Nikki Haley blasts Ramaswamy for 'choosing a murderer' in Putin

The Hill: Haley to Ramaswamy: ‘You have no foreign policy experience and it shows’

Fox News: Nikki Haley comes out swinging at other GOP candidates for approving big spending

Daily Wire: Nikki Haley Unloads On Vivek Ramaswamy Over Foreign Policy

The State: SC’s Haley takes fiery swings at first GOP debate as Scott flies under the radar

The Blaze: Nikki Haley and Vivek Ramaswamy battle it out at GOP debate: 'You have no foreign policy experience, and it shows!'

Times of Israel: Haley lashes Ramaswamy over call to cut Israel aid at Republican presidential debate

The Hill: Haley to Ramaswamy: ‘You have no foreign policy experience and it shows’

MarketWatch: Republican presidential debate: Haley impresses, as Pence, Ramaswamy also score points

Newsweek: Winner: Nikki Haley. Former South Carolina Governor and United States Ambassador Nikki Haley secured social media praise for her debate performance, including many who sided with her during a discussion on how the party should tackle abortion, which has become a complicated issue for Republicans in recent years… Beyond abortion, Haley went head-to-head with her opponents on Ukraine, calling for "moral clarity" on the issue while slamming entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy's stance on Ukraine aid.

Washington Examiner: Republican debate: Nikki Haley wins and it's not particularly close

Fox News: Nikki Haley pledges to create a 'strong and proud' America

Social
Chris Cillizza: The good: Nikki Haley The bad: DeSantis, Tim Scott The biggest story (for good and bad): Ramaswamy

Kayleigh McEnany: @NikkiHaley is a strong voice on foreign policy. Today, I told my 3-year-old daughter about the #GOPDebate, and she said "I want the only girl on the stage to win." Nikki is an inspiring woman & it's great to have her on this stage.

Kelly Dittmar, Associated Press: Haley's national security and education answers will play well with the base, and her overall poise and preparation showed.

Megyn Kelly: Woah! Haley!

Reaganite: She articulated a strong vision for 🇺🇸 global DOMINANCE. She articulated conservative positions on abortion, social issues in ways that resonate with moderates. She proved she’s the ONLY one who can beat Joe Biden & make America great again

Patricia Murphy, Atlanta Journal-Constitution: Winners: Haley & Pence Losers: DeSantis & Ramaswamy Honorable mention: Doug Burgam’s Achilles heel & Brian Kemp’s deer sticks
Alex Roarty, McClatchy: Haley trying to carve out a lane as the lone female candidate and might have made significant progress tonight

Megyn Kelly: Haley: biological boys do not belong in girls’ locker rooms. SO SIMPLE, SO TRUE

Andrew Clark: Nikki Haley standing up to Vivek persuasively on Ukraine and foreign policy. The others just wax on. #GOPDebate Her time as UN Ambassador standing up to the UN bullies shows.

Cesar Conda: Just imagine what Nikki Haley would do to demented Joe Biden on the debate stage. She is tough, smart, and compelling. Biden’s handlers would throw in the towel.