(DailyChive.com) – David Plouffe, the campaign manager for Barack Obama in 2008, suggested on “All In With Chris Hayes” that Democrats and independents participating in GOP primaries, specifically supporting Nikki Haley, could undermine Donald Trump’s aspirations for the 2024 election.
Plouffe acknowledged that the idea might be distasteful but argued that strategic voting in states like New Hampshire, the first primary state, could potentially prolong the Republican contest. However, he was uncertain whether it would entirely thwart Trump’s chances.
Since announcing his candidacy, Trump has maintained a clear lead in the GOP primary. Nevertheless, recent polls indicate a narrowing lead for Trump in New Hampshire, where Haley closely trails behind.
Recognizing this trend, Plouffe contended that a Haley victory in New Hampshire could transform the race into a two-person competition. “While Trump remains the favorite in other states, many Republicans might consider an alternative in a two-candidate race,” he explained. “So, tactical voting by liberals or independents who wouldn’t support Haley as president makes sense to me.”
New Hampshire’s primaries on January 23 allow voters without a declared party affiliation to participate in any party’s contest. With the Democratic National Committee refusing to acknowledge the state’s Democratic primary this year, the situation appears conducive to the strategic voting Plouffe is advocating.
Initially, President Biden aligned with the DNC and refrained from submitting paperwork for the New Hampshire ballot. While some Democrats plan to write in his name, Republican Secretary of State David Scanlan revealed that thousands of Democrats have switched to “undeclared” or even registered as Republicans.
Indeed, New Hampshire currently has more Republicans than Democrats for the first time since 2019. However, undeclared voters remain the largest voting bloc at 39%.
Plouffe acknowledged that some individuals might view interfering with another party’s nomination as too extreme, but he suggested it could be a savvy move as the primary season unfolds.
Nationally, Trump maintains a commanding lead with a 51.7-point advantage over other Republican contenders. Haley and DeSantis are virtually tied for second place with 11% and 10.9%, respectively.
While no historical precedent exists for a frontrunner losing their party’s nomination, Plouffe pointed out that dynamics can change significantly after early primaries. “It’s rare to have no surprises in this process,” he said. “While it’s possible this year, history suggests we should expect the unexpected.”
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