Nikki Haley Responds to Trump’s Cabinet Ban: "He Can Be Shallow"
Former UN Ambassador Addresses Trump’s Social Media Post and Clears Up Cabinet Speculations
Nikki Haley, former U.N. Ambassador, responded Wednesday to President-elect Donald Trump’s recent social media post, where he stated he would “not be inviting” her to join his new administration. Haley, in turn, clarified her position, stating that she had no interest in joining Trump’s cabinet, a sentiment she had previously expressed to Trump’s aides.
On X (formerly Twitter), Haley expressed pride in her past work with President Trump at the United Nations, wishing him success in his future endeavors. Her reply, however, drew criticism from Trump’s detractors, prompting her to address the situation more directly during her SiriusXM show, Nikki Haley Live. She explained that her family was frustrated she hadn’t publicly clarified earlier that she had no interest in a cabinet role.
Haley recounted a conversation with Trump’s close associate, Steve Witkoff, who approached her and her husband seeking a reconciliation between her and Trump. Haley told Witkoff there was no need for a truce, as she already supported Trump. Despite this, Witkoff pressed her about what she wanted, to which she replied, “There’s nothing I want.”
Haley further explained that she had spoken with Howard Lutnick, Trump’s transition director, about the importance of Trump surrounding himself with truthful advisors. She mentioned potential cabinet candidates, including someone for the role of Commerce Secretary and the suggestion that the U.N. Ambassador should be a cabinet position. However, she reiterated that she was not seeking a position for herself.
In her final remarks, Haley addressed Trump’s social media post, noting that she was not surprised by it and understood the political game he was playing. She emphasized that while she didn’t take it personally, the larger focus should be on the future of the country. She called for unity and for Americans to hope for Trump’s success, especially for the sake of future generations. Reflecting on the situation, Haley stated, “He can be shallow at times,” but she is content with her current position and the path she has chosen.