(The Center Square) – Former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley is continuing to gain steam in New Hampshire, chipping away at former President Donald Trump’s commanding lead in the Republican Primary, according to a new poll taken Thursday through Monday.
Trump leads 39%-32% in the sampling of 919 likely GOP voters in the Jan. 23 primary.
The former governor and UN ambassador has emerged as the state’s alternative choice to Trump, who leads all major national polls. Former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie was at 12%, businessman Vivek Ramaswamy 8% and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis 5%.
Haley has had a 12% boost since a similar November CNN/UNH poll was conducted. In addition, she received a significant endorsement from New Hampshire Gov. Chris Sununu last month.
This is the second New Hampshire poll within weeks showing Haley chipping away at Trump’s lead and creating space over other candidates. A December CBS poll showed Trump leading Haley 44%-29% among likely GOP New Hampshire voters. DeSantis (18%), Christie (17%) and Ramaswamy (5%) trailed them.
Haley’s popularity could be credited to the state’s notable independent streak. The recent poll shows the former governor is up 18 points among independents and 20 points among moderates since the November sampling.
Trump still holds a commanding lead among conservatives, leading Haley by 40%. However, the former president’s base appears to be more committed to his candidacy, with 80% of Trump’s supporters pledging their loyalty to him, and only 54% are firmly behind Haley.
The Republican Iowa caucuses begin the presidential primary calendar on Monday. South Carolina, on the first Saturday in February, follows New Hampshire.
