Washington, D.C. - In a significant boost to former U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley's campaign, the influential political network financed by billionaire Charles Koch, Americans for Prosperity Action, has officially endorsed her in the Republican primary. The endorsement positions Haley as the alternative candidate to Donald Trump and provides her with much-needed support against her Republican rivals.

The endorsement was announced by Emily Seidel, senior advisor to AFP Action, who expressed confidence in Haley's ability to bring about positive change and overcome the nation's political dysfunction. Seidel emphasized that Haley represents a new generation of leadership, offering a bold and positive vision for the country's future. AFP Action is pledging its full support to help Haley secure the Republican nomination and ultimately become the next President of the United States.

While Haley's campaign is expected to gain momentum and support in key primary states, notably Florida, the decision comes as a blow to Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. DeSantis has been struggling to gain traction and find a spark to invigorate his lackluster campaign. However, it is worth noting that Governor DeSantis has been a staunch ally to AFP and the state of Florida, making this endorsement a challenging decision for the political network.

Donors to Americans for Prosperity had expressed their desire for the group to select and back a preferred candidate sooner rather than later. As the Republican primary field narrowed with the withdrawal of former Vice President Mike Pence and Senator Tim Scott, pressure mounted on AFP to make a decision. Ultimately, the endorsement of Haley demonstrates the political network's commitment to supporting a candidate who aligns with their policy positions and has a strong chance of victory.

The endorsement from Americans for Prosperity Action brings not only financial backing but also a well-established state operation that rivals the infrastructure of the Republican National Committee. With a reputation for being a turnkey operation, AFP can swiftly kick into gear and provide direct support to Haley's campaign when needed. So far this cycle, the group has already invested around $4 million in ads, covering digital, satellite, and radio platforms.

Governor DeSantis and his team were alerted to the likely endorsement of Haley after an AFP backer discussed it at a gathering of political donors two weeks ago. This revelation prompted a full-court press from DeSantis's camp to persuade AFP to give their candidate more time and reconsider their decision. However, AFP maintained that the endorsement decision was still in progress until the official announcement.

In response to the endorsement, Haley expressed gratitude for the support from Americans for Prosperity Action and its grassroots members across the country. She highlighted the significant stakes of the upcoming election, framing it as a choice between freedom and socialism, individual liberty and big government, and fiscal responsibility and spiraling debt. Haley asserted her commitment to saving the country and working alongside AFP Action to achieve that goal.

With AFP's endorsement, Haley gains a formidable operational advantage, including a well-organized grassroots network in key primary states and expertise in door-to-door canvassing. This advantage could significantly enhance Haley's campaign, especially if former President Donald Trump becomes ineligible for service due to legal cases against him. Trump has pleaded not guilty to indictments in Georgia, Florida, New York, and Washington, D.C.

While Governor DeSantis was once seen as the most electable alternative to Trump, recent polling and disappointing debate performances have caused AFP to shift their focus to Haley. Recent polls in New Hampshire show Haley rising to second place, surpassing DeSantis by double digits. The Des Moines Register/NBC News/Mediacom Iowa poll released in late October showed Haley and DeSantis tied for second place with 16 percent support.

The endorsement from Americans for Prosperity Action significantly reshapes the Republican primary race, providing Nikki Haley with a strong support base and resources to compete against her rivals. As the primary season progresses, the impact of this endorsement on Haley's campaign and the broader Republican landscape will become clearer.