Former President Trump outshines South Carolina’s potential 2024 GOP candidates with party speaking engagement.
Former President Donald Trump to Speak at South Carolina GOP Event
Former President Donald Trump, who is currently leading the Republican primary field in his 2024 comeback bid, has been announced as the keynote speaker at the South Carolina Republican Party’s 56th Annual Silver Elephant Gala. This prestigious speaking role reflects Trump’s continued dominance within the party, especially in a state that has historically played a significant role in determining the party’s nominee.
The event will take place on Saturday, Aug. 5, at the South Carolina State Fairgrounds in Columbia. It is scheduled to begin at 8:30 p.m. and promises to be an exciting evening filled with influential Republican figures.
Trump’s Selection Undercuts Local Rivals
It comes as no surprise that South Carolina Republicans have shown unwavering support for Trump, even after his loss to President Joe Biden in 2020. However, the decision to have Trump as the keynote speaker inherently undermines the political standing of local 2024 rivals, former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley and Sen. Tim Scott (R-SC). National polls indicate that both Haley and Scott are polling in the single digits nationally in their quest for the 2024 Republican nomination and the opportunity to challenge Biden.
A recent Fox News poll conducted in South Carolina shows Trump leading the GOP presidential race with 48% support. Haley follows with 14%, Gov. Ron DeSantis (R-FL) with 13%, Scott with 10%, and former Vice President Mike Pence with 4%.
A Gathering of Prominent Republicans
The Silver Elephant Gala is known for attracting prominent Palmetto State Republicans. The guest list includes Gov. Henry McMaster (R-SC), who took over as governor when Haley was appointed as U.S. ambassador to the United Nations, as well as Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-SC), South Carolina GOP Chairman and RNC Co-Chairman Drew McKissick, and other Republican elected officials.
South Carolina’s Crucial Role in the Presidential Primary
South Carolina Republicans have strategically scheduled their presidential primary for Feb. 24, 2024. This relatively late date could force candidates to invest more time and resources in the state, potentially reshaping their campaign strategies for the earlier GOP contests. With Iowa and New Hampshire potentially holding votes in January and Nevada’s plans uncertain, South Carolina’s primary could create a substantial gap in the calendar.
South Carolina has historically been a decisive battleground in Republican presidential nomination fights. Past winners in the state include Presidents Ronald Reagan in 1980 and George W. Bush in 2000, as well as the 1996 Republican presidential nominee Bob Dole.
Other Candidates Making Their Mark in South Carolina
Aside from Trump and the local candidates, other contenders in the 2024 GOP race frequently visit South Carolina. This includes Pence, Gov. Doug Burgum (R-ND), former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, DeSantis, radio talk show host Larry Elder, ex-Texas Rep. Will Hurd, former Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson, businessman Vivek Ramaswamy, and Miami Mayor Francis Suarez.
Nikki Haley Boosts Her Candidacy in New Hampshire
Nikki Haley has also been actively campaigning in New Hampshire, which holds the first-in-the-nation primary. She will be attending an event at LaBelle Winery in Amherst, New Hampshire, on Aug. 7. The event aims to support Haley’s candidacy, as well as other GOP office-seekers in the state and the local wine industry.
The event, called the Politics & Prosecco Summer Soiree, will feature Haley as the guest speaker. Tickets are available for $75 for members and their guests, and $100 for nonmembers. Attendees can enjoy a glass of sparkling wine, heavy hors d’oeuvres, and engage in conversations with empowered female leaders.
New Hampshire’s Growing Wine Industry
New Hampshire may be better known for maple syrup and fall foliage, but it has recently gained recognition for its wine industry. With over 30 wineries, some of which have received national and international acclaim, the state’s wine production has caught the attention of Wine Enthusiast magazine. LaBelle Winery, in particular, has been praised for its quality wines and event-hosting spaces.
According to the magazine, winemaker Amy LaBelle has created a comprehensive winery experience that started with a small batch of blueberry wine made in her Boston apartment. Today, LaBelle Winery boasts a 20,000-square-foot space that includes a bistro, tasting bar, art gallery, gift shop, and event space. The winery also hosts various events, such as acoustic performances, cooking with wine classes, talks with local artists, book signings, and even power yoga classes.
For more information, click here to visit The Washington Examiner.
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