Florida Governor Ron DeSantis ended his presidential campaign and endorsed Donald Trump on Sunday (January 21, 2024), leaving former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley as the only major contender of the former US President for the Republican nomination.

DeSantis made the announcement just days before the crucial New Hampshire Republican Presidential primary.

He suffered a major loss in the Iowa phase of the primary which was clinched by Trump.

DeSantis, who was observed by many as a potential alternative to Trump for the presidential poll later this year, said in a video post on X: "Today I am suspending my campaign."

"It’s clear to me that a majority of Republican primary voters want to give Donald Trump another chance," he said.

He said: "While, I’ve had disagreements with Donald Trump, such as on the Coronavirus pandemic and his elevation of Anthony Fauci, Trump is superior to the current incumbent Joe Biden. That is clear."

Nikki Halley factor

Nikki Haley currently stands as the only challenge for Trump to secure a Republican nomination and fight for the presidential seat.

Reacting to the development following Ron DeSantis withdrawal from the race, Haley told CNN: "There’s two people in this race. That’s what we wanted all along. We are going to keep on going."

According to CNN poll, Trump is leading Haley in New Hampshire by 11 points.