During the college football rivalry weekend in Columbia, former President Donald Trump took center stage at the Palmetto Bowl, strategically overshadowing his Republican rival, Nikki Haley, and rallying his supporters. The former South Carolina governor chose to stay away from the high-stakes game, a move highlighted by The Associated Press News on Sunday, November 26.
Trump’s presence, orchestrated by Gov. Henry McMaster, showcased a political alliance shift that drew attention. Despite Trump’s dominance, Lindsey Graham, a longtime ally of Haley, joined the entourage, underscoring Trump’s influence in local politics.
The halftime appearance by Trump and McMaster drew a mix of cheers and boos, emphasizing the divisive nature of his influence. Trump’s campaign strategically announced endorsements from numerous South Carolina legislators, aiming to reinforce his dominance in the lead-up to the Republican primaries.
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Columbia was prepared for Trump’s visit, with billboards addressing his 2020 election loss and legal troubles. The atmosphere was charged with both fervent support, as seen in the sale of Trump-related merchandise, and opposition, with some fans chanting Let’s Go Brandon!—a derogatory reference to President Joe Biden.
Amid this charged backdrop, Haley’s spokesperson, Olivia Perez-Cubas, asserted her candidate’s momentum and highlighted Haley’s history of overcoming odds. The upcoming primary matchup between Haley and Trump is framed as a test of resilience for the former governor.
Trump’s history of needling Haley, recalling his 2016 success in South Carolina, sets the stage for a showdown. The state holds significance in the GOP voting calendar, with its primary scheduled for February 24, 2024, after Iowa, New Hampshire, and Nevada. Trump’s past victories in South Carolina solidify his delegate lead.
As Haley campaigns in Iowa, emphasizing her roots, she vows to confront Trump head-on in her home state. The political drama gains a unique dimension with Trump’s affinity for college football, showcased through past sports cameos during his presidency.
