Americans for Prosperity Action, a libertarian conservative political policy network founded by the billionaire Koch brothers, has announced that it will no longer provide financial support to Nikki Haley’s presidential campaign. This decision comes after Haley’s loss in the Republican primary in her home state of South Carolina to former President Donald Trump.
In an email to staff, AFP CEO Emily Seidel stated, “Nikki Haley has shown us again and again that we made the right decision in supporting her candidacy and she continues to have our strong endorsement.” Despite ending financial support, the organization still supports Haley’s efforts in the campaign. However, they believe that given the challenges she faces in the upcoming primary states, outside groups like AFP cannot significantly impact her chances of victory.
This decision by AFP represents another setback for Haley as her path forward becomes increasingly narrow. Nevertheless, Haley’s campaign remains confident in its fundraising efforts. Olivia Perez Cubas, a spokesperson for Haley, expressed gratitude towards AFP and stated, “Our fight continues, and with more than $1 million coming in from grassroots conservatives in just the last 24 hours, we have plenty of fuel to keep going. We have a country to save.”
The $1 million raised by the Haley campaign within 24 hours of the South Carolina primary results came from online donations. Additionally, Haley plans to intensify fundraising efforts over the next 10 days as she embarks on a campaign swing across the country.
AFP had initially endorsed Haley’s campaign and provided significant financial support in November. This support included a multimillion-dollar ad campaign set to launch in early and Super Tuesday states, as well as on-the-ground volunteers to bolster Haley’s chances. However, AFP now plans to redirect its resources towards House and Senate races where they believe they can make a greater impact.
Seidel emphasized the importance of preventing one-party rule by a Democratic Party influenced by the Progressive Left, stating, “If Donald Trump is at the top of the Republican ticket, the risk is severe and would do irreparable damage to the country.”
Despite the setback, Haley remains determined to continue her fight for the presidency. With grassroots support and a vigorous fundraising strategy, she believes she has the resources necessary to persevere. As she crisscrosses the country in the coming days, Haley will strive to rally support and secure her place as a formidable challenger in the race for the Republican nomination.
Nidia Cavazos is a 2024 campaign reporter for CBS News.
