Majority of South Carolina Republicans Support Trump
A recent poll conducted by Monmouth University reveals that among potential Republican primary voters in South Carolina, 58% expressed support for former President Donald Trump, while only 32% said the same for former United Nations Ambassador Nikki Haley.
Increase in Support for Trump and Haley
Since the presidential contest narrowed down to these two candidates, both Trump and Haley have experienced a surge in support. A previous Monmouth University poll from September showed Trump with 46% support and Haley with 18% support among South Carolina Republicans.
Trump Leads in All Age Groups and Genders
The survey results across all age groups indicate that Trump’s support surpasses that of Haley among both men and women.
Perceived Electability Against President Biden
The respondents also expressed their belief that Trump has a greater chance of defeating President Joe Biden in the November election. 42% of those surveyed said they believe Trump could definitely beat Biden, while 29% said he probably could. In contrast, only 21% of South Carolina Republicans believed Haley could definitely beat Biden.
Support Despite Legal Issues
A surprising finding of the poll was that a majority of South Carolina Republicans, 60%, stated that they believe the Republican Party should keep Trump on the ticket if he wins the nomination but is convicted of a crime related to the 2020 election. Additionally, 62% said they would still cast their general election ballot for Trump in that scenario.
Trump’s Advantage on Key Issues
Trump, who emerged victorious in both the Iowa caucuses and the New Hampshire Republican primary, enjoys greater support from South Carolina voters on various issues, including the economy and foreign policy.
Trust to Handle Important Matters
When it comes to being trusted to handle important matters, Trump holds a slight advantage over Haley, with 35% expressing trust in him compared to 26% for Haley. However, 33% of respondents said they trust both candidates equally on the issue.
Trump and Haley Woo Republican Mega-Donors
Haley’s campaign manager, Betsy Ankey, recently made a case for the former governor’s candidacy to Republican mega-donors known as the American Opportunity Alliance. Trump’s campaign advisor, Susie Wiles, also attended the event to appeal to donors. Trump has been actively working to mend relationships with the GOP donor class and consolidate support politically and financially.
The Republican presidential primary election in South Carolina is scheduled to take place on February 24, 2024.
Contributor: Paul Steinhauser – Fox News
