COLUMBIA, S.C. - Former South Carolina governor and United Nations ambassador Nikki Haley declared her growing momentum in the race to become the Republican front-runner, as she officially filed to appear on the South Carolina Republican presidential primary ballot yesterday. Haley, who returned to the Statehouse where her political career began, expressed confidence in her ability to challenge former President Donald Trump in the upcoming primary.

According to a Des Moines Register poll released on Monday, Haley has caught up with Florida Governor Ron DeSantis in Iowa, as both candidates aim to secure second place in their bid to offer an alternative to Trump. Although Trump maintains a substantial lead both nationally and in early primary states, Haley and DeSantis are actively focusing their campaigns and associated super PACs on each other through advertisements and messaging.

The field of Republican candidates, which initially consisted of approximately a dozen contenders, is narrowing down. Former Vice President Mike Pence recently withdrew from the race due to underwhelming poll numbers and low fundraising totals. Haley predicts that the number of candidates will continue to dwindle after the Iowa caucus and subsequent New Hampshire primary.

Speaking confidently at the signing ceremony, Haley stated, "Then we'll come to the sweet state of South Carolina, and we'll finish it."

Apart from showcasing her strong candidacy on foreign policy, Haley criticized the Biden administration for easing sanctions on Iran. She emphasized that the United States should play a supporting role to Israel amid the deepening conflict in Gaza. Haley further expressed her disagreement with pressuring the Israeli government to reinstate internet communications in the Gaza Strip, a stance that distinguishes her from other candidates.

As the South Carolina Republican primary draws closer on February 24, Haley's increased momentum in Iowa suggests a potential shift in the dynamics of the race. While Trump remains a formidable force, Haley's growing popularity demonstrates her rising appeal among voters seeking an alternative choice within the Republican Party.