Republican Presidential Candidate Declines to Mention Slavery as Cause of Civil War
Berlin, New Hampshire — Republican presidential candidate and former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley declined to mention slavery as the cause of the Civil War during a campaign event Wednesday evening in Berlin, New Hampshire.
"What was the cause of the United States Civil War?" a male attendee asked Haley during a town hall.
The former U.S. ambassador to the United Nations appeared to be taken aback by the question and paused before answering.
"Well, don't come with an easy question," Haley joked. "I think the cause of the Civil War was basically how government was going to run, the freedoms, and what people could and couldn't do. What do you think the cause of the Civil War was?"
Haley attempted to further elaborate her response, but still with no mention of slavery.
"I believe that the role of government is to secure the rights and freedoms of the people. It was never intended to be all-encompassing," stated Haley. "Government shouldn't dictate how individuals live their lives."
When a voter questioned Haley about her omission of slavery in her response, she retorted, "What would you like me to say about slavery?"
The audience at the town hall reacted with applause to Haley's remarks. However, criticism swiftly followed, with numerous individuals expressing their opinions on social media. President Biden also weighed in, tweeting late Wednesday night: "It was about slavery."
"Condemning slavery should be the minimum requirement for anyone aspiring to be President of the United States. Nikki Haley and the rest of the MAGA GOP are struggling to rewrite history," said Jaime Harrison, chairman of the Democratic National Committee, in a statement to CBS News following the town hall.
This incident has occurred as Haley's popularity is growing in New Hampshire, as indicated by recent polls showing her gaining ground on former President Donald Trump. This is a feat that no other Republican presidential candidate has achieved in the Granite State. Additionally, she received an endorsement from Republican New Hampshire Governor Chris Sununu earlier this month.
During her campaign, Haley has been a strong advocate for the removal of the Confederate flag in South Carolina. This move came after the tragic mass shooting at Mother Emanuel AME church in Charleston, where nine Black people were killed by a white supremacist.
In her speeches, Haley often shares the story of how the flag was taken down. She acknowledges that 50% of South Carolinians viewed the flag as a symbol of heritage and tradition, while the other 50% saw it as a symbol of slavery and hate. Haley's role as governor was not to judge either side, but to unite the people and move forward.
Haley emphasizes the importance of leadership in bringing the country together on sensitive issues. She highlights that the removal of the Confederate flag in South Carolina was a peaceful process, with vigils and hugs replacing riots and protests. According to Haley, this demonstrated the strength and grace of the people of South Carolina.
