“She actually has the best resume of the bunch, in my opinion, and she consistently, whether you like her or not, shows an example of being able to have a nuanced conversation,” Granger said. “As we see people creeping up (in polls) that are not DeSantis, it’s going to be a larger conversation, especially as these trials (against Trump) move forward, to see who’s actually going to be in a leadership position come November 2024.”
Haley has seen a bump in the polls after the first two Republican primary debates. The third is slated for November in Miami.
Haley’s performance last week in Simi Valley, California, was lauded by Republicans after she targeted several of her contenders, including DeSantis, biotech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy and Sen. Tim Scott, R-S.C.
Trump took notice, as well. His campaign hit her during the event, and the former president himself lashed out at her Friday on social media, in what some say is an indication she’s being viewed as a more formidable opponent than before.
“Make no mistake, it is a very steep mountain to climb, but she is on her way,” said Republican strategist Matthew Bartlett.