MARYLAND, USA — One day before the Iowa Caucuses, former Maryland Governor Larry Hogan announced he is backing Nikki Haley in the presidential race.
Sunday on CNN’s State of the Union, Hogan, a moderate Republican who has been critical of former President Donald Trump, said he expects Trump to win in Iowa, but, that Haley "has all of the momentum” to be a strong nominee in November.
Hogan added in past years the winner in Iowa did not end up becoming the presidential nominee, noting that the fight for second place is just as important.
"It's time for the party to get behind Nikki Haley," Hogan said.
Hogan's endorsement of Haley comes amid speculation about whether Hogan would make a run for president himself. Hogan recently stepped down from leadership of the third-party movement No Labels, which is seeking ballot access in the 2024 presidential election.
There was talk that the step-down may have signaled his own presidential run. But Hogan dismissed the speculation.
“I’m focused on trying to nominate the strongest possible Republican we can, which is why I’m urging everyone to get behind Nikki Haley,” Hogan told CNN's Jake Tapper.
RELATED: Former Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan steps down from No Labels' board in a possible sign of a 2024 bid
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