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Indian-American US presidential candidate Nikki Haley has pulled off a surprising victory over Donald Trump in the Republican primary in Vermont, marking her second win in the race for the White House in 2024.

 

With 98 percent of the vote counted, Haley, 52, leads former president Trump, 77, by 49.9 percent to 45.8 percent, according to US media outlets. While Trump maintains a lead in other states, Haley's triumph in Vermont is significant, especially on Super Tuesday, as it marks her second victory in the primaries.

 

In response to her projected win, Haley's campaign expressed gratitude for the support received across the country. Haley's spokesperson, Olivia Perez-Cubas, highlighted the historic nature of her victory in Vermont, where she became the first Republican woman to win two presidential primary contests.

 

However, despite her victories, Haley's campaign acknowledges the concerns expressed by a significant portion of Republican primary voters about the former president.

 

Perez-Cubas emphasized the need to address these concerns for the unity and success of the Republican Party. While Trump maintains a formidable delegate lead with 893 delegates compared to Haley's 66, both candidates still need 1,215 delegates to secure the presidential nomination of the Republican party.

 

Vermont's primary system, operating on a winner-takes-all basis, offers 17 delegates to the candidate who secures 50 percent or more of the statewide vote. Haley's crucial endorsement from Vermont Governor Phil Scott further boosted her chances in the state, known for favoring moderate Republican candidates.

 

Commenting on Haley's prospects in Vermont, political science professor Alex Garlick noted the state's history of favoring moderate Republicans, suggesting that Haley had her best shot there.

 

Just days before her victory in Vermont, Haley made history by winning the Republican primary in Washington DC, becoming the first woman ever to achieve this milestone.

 

As the race for the Republican nomination progresses, Haley's unexpected victories underscore the shifting dynamics within the party and highlight her growing influence as a candidate.