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In a decisive victory, former President Donald Trump has secured a win in South Carolina's Republican presidential primary on Saturday. This win strengthens his position as the frontrunner for the nomination, while his main rival, Nikki Haley, faces a challenging road ahead.
Trump has dominated all GOP nominating contests so far, winning by significant margins in Iowa and New Hampshire, then securing victories in Nevada and the US Virgin Islands, where Haley was not on the ballot. However, his triumph in South Carolina, a state that elected Haley as governor twice, is seen as a particularly notable achievement in this campaign.
Addressing supporters at his election night watch party in Columbia, Trump expressed surprise at the timing and magnitude of his win, stating, "I have never seen the Republican Party so unified as it is right now." He was joined on stage by prominent South Carolina political figures, including Governor Henry McMaster and Senator Tim Scott, a strong supporter and potential running mate.
Despite Trump's victory, Haley remains undeterred, vowing to continue her campaign through the Super Tuesday races. In her post-vote speech, she emphasized her ability to defeat Joe Biden in the general election, positioning herself as a viable alternative to Trump.
The focus now shifts to Michigan, where the next Republican primary will be held on Tuesday. Trump's win in South Carolina adds pressure on Haley to reconsider her campaign, with some Republicans urging her to step aside and clear the path for Trump's anticipated rematch with President Biden.
Haley's team, however, remains resolute, stating their intention to continue campaigning vigorously, with plans to allocate resources to Super Tuesday states. Despite the challenges ahead, Haley shows no sign of backing down, setting the stage for a continued battle for the Republican nomination.
