How far behind is too far for Nikki Haley?
It was Donald Trump’s night, no doubt. He had the numbers and he got the victory.
For Nikki Haley, the question that will be answered in due course is: how far behind is too far?
In the Granite state, she had the conditions she craved – an independent, moderate crowd passing judgement on a two-person contest.
It still didn’t get her as close to Donald Trump as she wanted.
The question is whether it got her close enough to the notion that she can challenge in different and more difficult places.
Before Tuesday’s primary, Nikki Haley pledged that she would continue to the next big contest in South Carolina. She maintained that will be the case last night. “I’m a fighter, I’m scrappy.”
There has to be doubt around her longevity. It won’t be her decision alone. Big money donors will subject the night’s numbers to close examination to measure her chances of success going forward – and their appetite for continued investment.
She will want to remain in the process as long as she can, given the uncertainty around her rival.
Four criminal trials lend uncertainty to Donald Trump and his future plans. Nikki Haley will want to style herself as natural successor, should the favourite take a fall.
