In an effort to directly challenge his rival Nikki Haley in her home state, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis plans to head straight to South Carolina after Monday's Iowa caucuses, which hold significance as the first GOP votes in the South.

According to DeSantis' campaign, the governor will leave Iowa after a caucus night party and fly to South Carolina, where he is scheduled to appear at a campaign event in Greenville, located in the conservative northwestern region of the state. This decision deviates from the traditional path of immediately heading to New Hampshire, which is the next state on the GOP calendar with its Jan. 23 primary.

The battle between Haley and DeSantis for second place in Iowa has been ongoing, with former President Donald Trump leading in the polls. In an attempt to demonstrate his intent on performing well in her home state, DeSantis' campaign sees this move as a message to Haley. Additionally, advisors highlight that DeSantis has garnered significantly more endorsements from current and former elected officials in South Carolina compared to Haley.

The announcement also reflects Haley's strong performance in New Hampshire. A recent CNN/UNH poll conducted in the state suggests that Haley, the former South Carolina governor and U.N. ambassador, is gaining ground and could potentially challenge Trump's top spot. Approximately 4 in 10 likely Republican primary voters in New Hampshire still choose Trump, while around one-third back Haley.

DeSantis' spokesperson, Andrew Romeo, emphasized that their campaign is prepared for the long haul and intends to compete for every available delegate in the upcoming states. After the Iowa caucuses, the campaign plans to intensify efforts in both South Carolina and New Hampshire.

Despite traditionally heading to New Hampshire after the early contests, DeSantis aims to make a strong impression in South Carolina before moving on. Following his event in South Carolina, DeSantis will then proceed to New Hampshire, where he is scheduled to participate in a CNN town hall on Tuesday night.

Haley has vowed to do well in the initial rounds of votes and expressed her intention to focus on South Carolina, stating, "we'll finish it." However, her campaign has not yet responded to requests for comment on this recent development.

As South Carolina remains a strong base of support for Trump since his primary win in 2016, he continues to hold popularity in the state. His endorsement has been secured by prominent figures such as Governor Henry McMaster, Senator Lindsey Graham, and several members of the U.S. House.

The upcoming South Carolina Republican primary is scheduled for February 24, following the Nevada GOP caucus in early February. DeSantis remains determined to compete for delegates in New Hampshire, Nevada, South Carolina, and subsequent states as part of his long-term campaign strategy.