Nikki Haley, a former Republican presidential candidate and ex-U.N. ambassador under Donald Trump, has expressed concerns that Trump may be alienating women voters ahead of the 2024 election. During a recent appearance on Fox News, she emphasized that Trump should focus on issues that resonate with suburban women and independents, highlighting that these groups represent the critical “5 percent” that could sway the election outcome.
Haley urged Trump to provide reassurance on his plans for the economy, border security, and foreign policy, stating, “The best thing he can do is let them feel secure.” She cautioned that if Trump continues to dwell on irrelevant topics—like criticizing Vice President Kamala Harris or making offbeat comments—he risks losing female support.
Additionally, Haley criticized remarks made by Trump’s potential running mate, Ohio Senator JD Vance, about women, stating that such comments are detrimental to the campaign. “It’s not helpful to talk about whether women have children or whether they don’t,” she remarked, advocating for a focus on policy over personality.
In a recent Emerson College survey, Harris was favored by nearly 12 percentage points among likely women voters, indicating a significant lead over Trump. Similarly, a Quinnipiac University poll showed Harris ahead by 12 points as well.
At a rally last month, Trump asserted that he would “protect” women if re-elected, insisting he never believed he had an issue with female voters and claiming they would feel “happy, healthy, confident, and free” under his administration.