Nikki Haley acknowledged defeat in South Carolina, confirmed that she is still in the race and doubled her bet against Trump: 'I don't think he can beat Joe Biden'

After being defeated in the South Carolina primary, Nikki Haley confirmed that she is still in the race and doubled down her bet against Donald Trump. The former governor assured that she is prepared for Super Tuesday and that the GOP needs a candidate who can win a general election.

Haley took the stage in Charleston, where she spoke to her followers. She first congratulated her rival, then formally acknowledged the fall in her home state.

"No matter the results, I love the people of our state. I love what we accomplished together and I love how we've united during our worst challenges and tragedies," she continued.

Immediately afterward, she emphasized that the almost 40% of the votes garnered was enough to want to continue in the race, understanding that the GOP must present a different candidate in November. "We have to defeat Joe Biden in November. I don't think Donald Trump can defeat Joe Biden," she added.

After a few minutes, she confirmed what her followers were waiting for: she will continue in the Republican primaries. "I am a woman of my word. (...) I will not give up this fight", she stated to unleash general applause from those present.

Finally, before falling into the routine thank yous, Haley is headed to Super Tuesday and the Michigan primary.

"In the next 10 days, another 21 states and territories will speak. They have the right to a real choice, not a Soviet-style election with only one candidate. And I have a duty to give them that choice," she said.