From Columbia, South Carolina -
After staying on the sidelines for months in the Republican race for President, Gov. Nikki Haley of South Carolina came through with a late endorsement for Marco Rubio on Wednesday, spurring hopes among Rubio supporters for a late surge in Saturday's primary in the Palmetto State.
"We make Presidents," Haley said of South Carolina's record in GOP primaries. "Let's make Marco Rubio the next President of the United States."
Soon after the Haley announcement, Donald Trump downplayed her importance during a rally in Sumter, South Carolina.
"First of all, she's very weak on illegal immigration, very weak," Trump said, as some in the audience jeered the mere mention of the Governor's name.
It wasn't immediately clear how much Haley's endorsement would benefit Rubio - but normally the backing of a sitting Governor is one of the biggest prizes any candidate can get in a race for President, since it opens doors in that state.
Both Rubio and Haley are 44 years old - both rising stars within the Republican Party.
Credit: Jamie Dupree
Credit: Jamie Dupree
Will her endorsement matter? Rubio already has the backing of Sen. Tim Scott (R-SC) and Rep. Trey Gowdy (R-SC), both of which also give him a little extra in the Palmetto State.
We will see on Saturday if those endorsements carry any weight at the polls.
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