Controversy and backlash have surrounded former UN ambassador Nikki Haley during her final campaign swing through New Hampshire as she seeks to establish herself as a Trump-alternative candidate in the 2024 presidential race. The focus of the controversy arose from Haley's initial failure to mention slavery as the primary cause of the United States' Civil War during a town hall event, instead emphasizing states' rights and the role of government.

Governor Chris Sununu, who recently endorsed Haley, joined her on the campaign trail in the Granite State. However, her statements on the cause of the Civil War led to a need for clarification. Haley acknowledged her error and stated clearly during a town hall in North Conway on Thursday that the Civil War was indeed primarily about slavery and that fact was "unquestioned." She also emphasized that the war encompassed broader issues such as individual freedoms and the role of government.

The controversy surrounding Haley's statements prompted quick responses from other Republican presidential candidates. Florida governor Ron DeSantis, who faced his own controversy earlier this year regarding a statement related to slavery, expressed confusion over Haley's initial failure to acknowledge slavery's role in the war. Vivek Ramaswamy, another Republican candidate, criticized Haley's understanding of the history of her own state.

Despite the criticism from her rivals, voters who attended Haley's campaign events on Thursday stood by her. Enthusiastic Republican voters filled the venues and showed support for Haley, emphasizing the importance of focusing on the issues she is running on rather than the controversy surrounding her Civil War statements. Supporters dismissed the backlash as political posturing, with some suggesting that the criticism stemmed from Haley's Southern background.

As the 2024 presidential race intensifies and the first nominating contests draw near, the lasting impact of Haley's refusal to initially mention slavery as the primary cause of the Civil War remains to be seen. Voters will continue to press candidates on issues that matter to them, as evidenced by a young New Hampshire voter's request for Haley to pledge not to accept the position of former President Donald Trump's running mate.

The controversy surrounding Haley's Civil War statements has undoubtedly shaped the discourse around her campaign and raised questions about her understanding of American history. How Haley addresses and navigates this controversy moving forward may significantly impact her chances in the upcoming primaries and the 2024 presidential election.