Billionaire-backed Koch network to stop funding Nikki Haley after defeat

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A group of political spenders supported by a wealthy conservative named Charles Koch have stopped providing funds to Nikki Haley's presidential campaign. This comes as a major blow to Donald Trump's main competition within the Republican party after Haley experienced a setback in the South Carolina primary during the weekend.

The decision made by Americans for Prosperity Action indicates that Haley's backing from prominent Republican donors in the business and finance sector, who have been instrumental in keeping her campaign afloat, may be diminishing now that Trump seems to have a secure lead in the Republican nomination race.

Although they no longer provided financial support to Haley's campaign, AFP Action did not switch their support to Trump either. This indicates that the organization may choose to stay neutral in the upcoming presidential election.

On Sunday, Emily Seidel, who holds a high-ranking position at AFP Action, declared that although they still "support" Haley's presidential campaign, they will shift their attention to contests for the US legislature, where their contributions can truly make an impact.

Seidel mentioned that she anticipates Trump's defeat in the upcoming general election, which would negatively impact the Republican Party's reputation and harm its chances of success in supporting other conservative contenders.

Seidel wrote that if Donald Trump becomes the Republican nominee, there is a significant danger of the Progressive Left taking control of the Democratic Party and creating a one-party rule. This scenario would cause unfixable harm to the country.

The Haley campaign had $13 million in funds available at the beginning of February, the same amount they spent in January. Federal reports released recently stated this. Haley has made a promise to continue her run for the presidency until the Super Tuesday contests in March. These contests will take place in various states and will play a significant role in deciding which delegates will represent the Republicans at their convention.

Haley entered the political race presenting herself as a conservative Republican with traditional beliefs, prioritizing national security and resolute fiscal responsibility. In recent times, she has been openly criticizing Trump for his demeanor and the disorder he has caused within American politics.

Despite being able to attract support from educated individuals residing in suburbs with moderate or centre-right views, the Republican base has not been swayed to support her. This is because this particular group of voters continues to remain loyal to Trump, his stance on populist economics, and his approach to foreign policy, which emphasizes isolationism.

The Haley team did not promptly reply to the AFP Action's declaration.

The Koch network used to provide significant financial support for Republican candidates during the time when Barack Obama was President. However, its level of influence has decreased somewhat in recent times.

AFP Action aims to assist the GOP in regaining power of the US Senate after they lost their majority in 2020 and were unable to regain it in 2022, despite the support of candidates endorsed by former President Trump.

According to Seidel, her team has already given its approval to candidates in four competitive elections in Nevada, Montana, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin, and will shortly be doing the same in Ohio and Michigan.

The outcome of the election will be determined by those who have yet to choose a side. Among this group, Joe Biden has twice the support as Donald Trump, according to the speaker. It will be a challenging task to persuade those who are committed to never voting for Trump to support Republican candidates for Congress who align with our values. However, it is crucial that we succeed in this effort.