NBC News exit poll results reveal that immigration was the top priority for South Carolina GOP primary voters today, with 37% citing it as the most important issue affecting their vote. This was followed by the economy (33%), foreign policy (13%), and abortion (10%). Among those who prioritized immigration, a whopping 82% supported Trump, while only 18% backed Haley. Additionally, nearly 70% of voters expressed more trust in Trump to handle border security than Haley.
The exit poll also showed a clear divide on the issue of undocumented immigrants, with 66% of voters stating that they should be deported to their countries of origin, while 30% believed they should be given a chance to apply for legal status. This marks a significant shift from 2016, when a larger percentage of voters supported offering legal status to undocumented immigrants.
In the aftermath of Trump’s commanding victory in South Carolina over Haley, top advisers are urging a shift in focus towards hitting President Biden and unifying the Republican Party. The campaign is looking ahead to Super Tuesday and the general election, as Trump’s continued dominance in the GOP nomination race becomes increasingly apparent.
On the Democratic side, the Biden campaign is hitting back at Trump’s claims regarding Black Americans, with campaign co-chair Cedric Richmond condemning Trump’s remarks as insulting and racist. This response comes in light of Trump’s attempts to appeal to Black voters by highlighting his own legal battles.
Despite her loss in her home state, Haley has vowed to continue her run for president, emphasizing the importance of giving voters a choice in states that have yet to hold their primaries. She congratulated Trump on his victory in South Carolina, expressing gratitude for the journey and affirming her commitment to staying in the race.
As Haley prepares to address her supporters in South Carolina, the atmosphere in the ballroom is filled with chants and anticipation. Meanwhile, Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom has praised Haley as a strong surrogate for the Democratic Party in making the case against Trump, highlighting her effective messaging and opposition to the former president.
In his victory speech, Trump commended key figures in the Republican Party, including Michael Whatley and Lara Trump, as well as mentioning involving Kellyanne Conway in future roles. South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster and Sens. Lindsey Graham and Tim Scott joined Trump on stage to celebrate his win, with Graham declaring Trump as the most qualified man to be president of the United States.
The results of the South Carolina GOP primary reflect a shifting political landscape, with immigration emerging as a top priority for voters alongside a renewed focus on unifying the party and taking on President Biden in the upcoming election. The sentiments expressed by both supporters and critics of the candidates illustrate the complex dynamics at play in the race for the presidency.
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