Former SC Governor Nikki Haley Won't Run for President in 2028

Haley opts out of 2028 presidential race, as new Charleston waterfront restaurant opens

Apr. 13, 2026 at 10:38pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A solitary, pensive figure sitting alone in a dimly lit political office, the scene bathed in warm, diagonal sunlight and deep shadows, conceptually representing the uncertainty surrounding the Republican Party's future leadership.Haley's decision not to run for president in 2028 leaves the Republican Party's future leadership uncertain as it navigates the post-Trump era.Charleston Today

Former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley announced that she will not run for president in 2028, ending speculation about her political future. Meanwhile, a new Mediterranean-inspired waterfront restaurant has opened in Charleston, bringing fresh flavors to the coastal city.

Why it matters

Haley's decision not to run for president in 2028 removes a potential high-profile Republican candidate from the next election cycle, while the new Charleston restaurant opening signals continued economic development and culinary innovation in the region.

The details

Nikki Haley, who served as South Carolina's governor from 2011 to 2017 and later as U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, stated that she will not be a candidate for president in 2028. This announcement puts an end to rumors that she may seek the Republican nomination. Meanwhile, a new waterfront restaurant called Adriatic Grill has opened in Charleston, offering Mediterranean-inspired cuisine with a focus on fresh seafood and locally-sourced ingredients.

  • Nikki Haley served as South Carolina's governor from 2011 to 2017.
  • Haley announced she will not run for president in 2028 on April 13, 2026.
  • Adriatic Grill opened its doors in Charleston in April 2026.

The players

Nikki Haley

Former Governor of South Carolina and U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations.

Adriatic Grill

A new waterfront restaurant in Charleston, South Carolina that offers Mediterranean-inspired cuisine.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“After careful consideration, I have decided that I will not be a candidate for president in 2028. I am grateful for the opportunity to have served my country, but my focus now is on my family and continuing to make a difference in other ways.”

— Nikki Haley, Former Governor of South Carolina

The takeaway

Haley's decision not to run for president in 2028 removes a prominent Republican voice from the next election cycle, while the opening of Adriatic Grill represents ongoing economic and culinary development in Charleston's vibrant waterfront district.