USA Nikki Haley: Vance statements about childless not helpful

Former Republican US presidential candidate Nikki Haley has criticized derogatory comments made by vice presidential candidate J.D. Vance about childless women. "It's not helpful to talk about whether women have children or not," the 52-year-old said of her party colleague's statements. "You know, if you want to talk about things, stick to the political content. Americans are smart. They don't need all this other noise distracting them."

Vance railed against "childless cat women"

Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump had introduced Vance as his running mate in mid-July. Only a short time later, the politician and author came under fire for his sexist statements about childless women. In a 2021 interview, the father of three referred to leading female Democratic politicians as "childless cat women". Vance later complained that he had been misunderstood. It was not his only comment in this direction. Vance once also called for childless people to have less say in a democracy and to pay more taxes. He also continued to make disparaging remarks about childless people during the election campaign.

Even though Haley had publicly ruled out becoming Trump's running mate, there were reports that the former governor of South Carolina had flirted with the post. However, Trump made it clear that he was not considering Haley for this role. The 78-year-old wants to move back into the White House after the presidential election on November 5.

Haley and Trump were bitter rivals in the pre-election campaign

In the TV interview, Haley also spoke about her support for Trump. The Republican had questioned Trump's mental fitness for the presidency during the pre-election campaign. Trump, on the other hand, made racist comments about the daughter of Indian immigrants. Nevertheless, the former US ambassador to the United Nations took an offensive stance behind her former boss at the Republican party convention in July - and performed a political U-turn. However, Trump does not appear to be too interested in further campaign support from his former rival.

Haley: I am ready to help Trump

"He knows I'm ready," said Haley when asked whether she would hold campaign events for Trump. Journalist Margaret Brennan replied: "In other words, you have not been asked to campaign. Are you advising him in preparation for the TV debate or are you talking to the campaign team?" Haley replied: "I'm not doing that, and that's his decision." Trump can do what he wants in the election campaign, she said. "So far, there's been no request. But you know, if he asks, I'm happy to help him." Although she does not agree with Trump's political style, she stands behind his political goals.

SDA