Former Republican presidential candidate Nikki Haley joins Edelman
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Nikki Haley at the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee on July 16. Photo: Joe Raedle/Getty Images
Former Republican presidential candidate and United Nations ambassador Nikki Haley will join public relations firm Edelman.
Why it matters: It's a surprising move for a once-rumored vice presidential contender and someone who former President Trump has said will be on his team "in some form" should he win the election.
The intrigue: Even though Haley endorsed Trump after the assassination attempt on him at a rally in July, this move signals Haley is pursuing other options.
- The Trump campaign did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
- Edelman would not say whether this role precludes her from participating in political activity ahead of the election.
Context: Haley will serve as vice chair within EGA, the firm's global public affairs consultancy.
- She will report to U.S. CEO Kirsty Graham and is expected to begin this month, according to the firm.
What they're saying: Haley acknowledged in a statement that corporate reputation, business and politics have become more entangled.
- "In a time of growing complexities in business, policy, and politics —brands need to anticipate what's coming next. Whether managing a crisis or celebrating a success, industry leaders must be ready to communicate clearly and share their vision forward."
The big picture: Communication and CEO advisories have long hired former diplomats, political strategists and government employees to help clients navigate global and regulatory issues.
- Now, corporations need help managing hyper-politicized initiatives like diversity, equity and inclusion and sustainability.
State of play: In response, several public relation firms are staffing up with public affairs professionals and politicians.
- Edelman has also hired Max Baucus, a former U.S. senator and ambassador to China, as a senior adviser within EGA.
- Meanwhile, the Weber Shandwick Collective has brought on former State Department officials Stephen F. Smith and Michael Turner, along with Biden-Harris alum Ashley Etienne as senior advisers.
- And Bully Pulpit International hired Senate alum Scott Mulhauser and U.S. Treasury alum Adam Hodge to lead its tax policy practice group.
What to watch: As the 2024 elections near and polls continue to fluctuate, advisory firms might begin to tap former Republican operatives to give them an advantage should there be a shift in power in Washington.
More on Axios: Nikki Haley says she'll vote for Trump in November
