Hutchinson throws support behind Haley days before New Hampshire primary

Former Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson, who withdrew from the Republican primary this week, announced her support for Republican presidential candidate Nikki Haley in an online post on Saturday, days before the New Hampshire primary.

“Anyone who believes Donald Trump will unite this country has been asleep for the last eight years.” Posted by Hutchinson on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter. “Trump is intentionally trying to divide America and will continue to do so. Go @NikkiHaley in New Hampshire. #Fitton.”

Hutchinson announced his decision to withdraw from the White House race on Tuesday after finishing sixth in the Iowa caucuses. He congratulated former President Trump on his victory and other candidates who narrowly missed Trump's lead.

Since launching his candidacy last April, Hutchinson has been seen as a likely candidate, especially after growing criticism of Trump. He called on Republicans to move on from the former president, who could be the party's nominee for a third consecutive term.

Hutchinson's comments follow similar lines to those of Sen. Tim Scott (RS.C.), who suspended his campaign in December. Scott endorsed Trump at an event in New Hampshire on Friday, saying the country needs a president who will “unite our country.” Mr. Scott has been criticized for his comments about Mr. Trump uniting the country, as well as his message of support for Mr. Hutchinson.

Republican Gov. Chris Sununu, who endorsed Haley in December, criticized Scott, saying no one, not even the former president himself, believed that Trump would unite the country.

Hutchinson's endorsement was announced just days before the state's Jan. 23 primary. Trump currently has the highest approval rating in the state, at 46.7%. Ms. Haley has steadily increased her approval ratings in recent months, with a 35.4 percent approval rating, thanks to several strong debate performances and support from Ms. Sununu, according to The Hill/Decision Desk headquarters. He is said to be closing in on Trump's lead.