Staff Reports
Former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie has dropped out of the 2024 race for the White House. Christie made the announcement to a room of supporters, stating, “It’s clear to me tonight that there isn’t a path for me to win the nomination, which is why I’m suspending my campaign tonight for President of the United States.” The former GOP presidential candidate’s departure comes just days before the Iowa caucuses and less than two weeks before the New Hampshire primary on January 23.
Speculation swirled earlier in the day that Christie was being encouraged by allies of rival candidate Nikki Haley to exit the race in order to improve Haley’s chances in the Granite State. Haley, who has the endorsement of New Hampshire Governor Chris Sununu, has been gaining ground in the polls against former President Donald Trump. However, Christie has voiced doubts about taking that path. He questioned the idea of stepping aside for someone who isn’t actively competing against Trump, expressing concern about the potential outcome and his supporters’ loyalty if Haley were to eventually join forces with Trump as his vice president.
Chris Christie on a HOT-MIC:
Nikki Haley “is gonna get smoked.” pic.twitter.com/zKKa73Iwcz
— Townhall.com (@townhallcom) January 10, 2024
Christie’s decision to drop out comes amid a shifting landscape in the Republican primary race. Recent polling averages show Donald Trump leading in New Hampshire with 41.5%, while Nikki Haley follows closely behind at 30.5%. Christie’s support stands at 11.5%, reflecting a marginal increase over the last month. The former governor had not actively campaigned in Iowa.
With Christie’s departure, the field of Republican candidates has narrowed, leaving a clearer path for other contenders in the race. As the primary season progresses, the dynamics of the GOP race are likely to continue evolving, paving the way for a new chapter in the quest for the party’s nomination.
