Nikki Haley Criticizes Vivek Ramaswamy’s Use of Her Daughter in Controversial Statement

Former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley has strongly criticized fellow 2024 Republican presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy after he made a personal attack involving Haley’s daughter during the GOP primary debate on Wednesday.

The heated exchange occurred amidst the ongoing debate over whether to ban the popular social media app TikTok due to concerns raised by FBI and other national security officials about the potential transfer of personal data to the Chinese government.

Ramaswamy took a dig at Haley by mentioning that her own daughter had been using TikTok for a considerable period of time, implying that she should prioritize her family’s well-being. The audience responded with boos to Ramaswamy’s comment.

In response, Haley firmly defended her daughter and reprimanded Ramaswamy, expressing her displeasure with his remarks. She dismissed his attack by calling him “scum,” while visibly displaying her discontent through eye-rolling and head-shaking.

Although Haley’s daughter is in her mid-20s, it is highly unusual for candidates to involve their opponents’ families in personal attacks during a debate.

This is not the first clash between the two candidates during the primary. In August’s initial debate, Haley had criticized Ramaswamy for his lack of foreign policy experience.

In another segment of Wednesday’s debate, while discussing foreign policy, Ramaswamy referred to Haley as “Dick Cheney in 3-inch heels,” alluding to the former Republican vice president. Haley promptly responded, correcting Ramaswamy by stating that her heels were actually 5 inches and jokingly adding that she only wears them if they are suitable for running.

The exchange between Haley and Ramaswamy highlights the intense rivalry between the two contenders vying for the Republican nomination in the upcoming presidential election.