Nikki Haley: Vance’s statements about childless people are not helpful

Former Republican US presidential candidate Nikki Haley has criticized derogatory comments made by vice presidential candidate JD Vance about childless women. “It’s not helpful to talk about whether women have children or not,” the 52-year-old said of her party colleague’s statements. “You know, if you want to talk about things, stick to the political content. Americans are smart. They don’t need all this other noise distracting them.”

Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump introduced Vance as his vice president in mid-July. Shortly afterwards, the politician and author came under criticism for his sexist statements about childless women. In an interview in 2021, the father of three had called leading Democratic politicians “childless cat women.” He later complained to Vance that he had been misunderstood. It was not the senator’s only statement in this direction. Vance also once demanded that childless people should have less say in a democracy and pay more taxes. He also continued to make disparaging comments about childless people during the election campaign.

Even though Haley had publicly ruled out running for Trump’s vice-presidential candidate, there were reports that the former governor of South Carolina had flirted with the post. However, Trump made it clear that he was not considering Haley for the role. The 78-year-old will move back into the White House after the presidential election on November 5.

Haley also spoke about her support for Trump in the TV interview. During the primary campaign, the Republican had questioned Trump’s mental suitability for the presidency. Trump, in turn, made racist comments against the daughter of Indian immigrants. Nevertheless, the former US ambassador to the United Nations openly supported her former boss at the Republican National Convention in July – and made a political U-turn. Trump appears to be another campaign helper for his former opponent, but is not particularly interested.

“He knows I’m willing,” said Haley when asked if she would hold campaign events for Trump. Journalist Margaret Brennan replied: “In other words, you have not been asked to campaign. Are you advising him on preparing for the TV debate or are you speaking to the campaign team?” Haley replied: “I’m not, and that’s his decision.” Trump can do whatever he wants during the campaign. “So far there hasn’t been a request. But you know, if he asks, I’m happy to help him.” Although you don’t agree with Trump’s political style, you support his political goals.