Michael Suarez’s girlfriend initially doubted his decision to attend the event, but when he received the coveted invitation in his email, the Merrimack, New Hampshire, voter was determined not to miss the post-election celebration for Donald Trump.
Expressing the need for a strong leader in today’s world, Suarez praised Trump as a “tough guy” capable of handling diplomatic challenges with leaders like North Korea’s Kim Jong Un and Russia’s Vladimir Putin. He emphasized the importance of having a president who doesn’t shy away from making assertive decisions.
Witnessing the momentous occasion, Suarez joined several hundred volunteers and supporters in cheering for their candidate as he took the stage in a Nashua, New Hampshire, hotel ballroom. The former president and Republican presidential candidate had just secured victory in the New Hampshire primary, securing over 54% of the vote compared to former United Nations Ambassador Nikki Haley’s 43%, based on 91% of votes counted.
The results marked historical achievements for Trump, winning the New Hampshire primary for the third time across three presidential cycles and clinching his second campaign victory in as many weeks. Notably, Trump became the first non-incumbent Republican in 40 years to triumph in both the Iowa caucuses and the New Hampshire primary.
New Hampshire Brings Trump One Step Closer to Securing GOP Nomination (Credits: The Guardian)
Trump celebrated the victory, pointing to his impressive 30-point win in the Iowa caucuses as a record-breaking achievement. A merchandise bus, filled with various Trump memorabilia, was parked next to the hotel where Trump delivered his primary night speech.
The New Hampshire primary field narrowed down to two candidates after Florida Governor Ron DeSantis withdrew from the race and threw his support behind Trump. On the eve of the election, the former president was joined by three other former presidential competitors-turned-supporters: South Carolina Senator Tim Scott, entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy, and North Dakota Governor Doug Burnam.
Despite the competition, Haley emerged as a strong second, narrowing the gap with Trump more than polls had indicated. At her post-election rally, she reflected on the challenges of the campaign, noting that at one point, there were 14 candidates in the running. Haley expressed her scrappiness and determination, highlighting that she was now the last one standing beside Donald Trump.
Haley also gained support from New Hampshire Governor Chris Sununu and independent voters who chose her on the Republican ballot. One voter, Peggi Sawiki from Pelham, New Hampshire, praised Haley’s ability to bring people together, emphasizing its importance in the current state of the country.
President Joe Biden, though not on the ballot, easily secured victory in the Democratic primary. The Democratic National Committee’s decision to demote New Hampshire from its traditional first-state primary status led to a grassroots write-in campaign in support of Biden.
Looking ahead, the next primary in South Carolina promises another showdown between Trump and Haley. Trump, confident in his chances, anticipates an easy win, while Haley welcomes the challenge, expressing gratitude to New Hampshire and declaring, “we’re goin’ home to South Carolina” at her Tuesday night rally.
