Representative Nikki Haley
For Governor of South Carolina
A pro-business leader in the fight for lower taxes and less government, Nikki Haley has fought wasteful spending during her time in Columbia, pushing for smaller, efficient and accountable government. She has emerged in the House of Representatives as a tireless proponent of legislation designed to raise income levels, create jobs and enhance quality of life.
For her efforts to reduce taxes and government spending, Nikki was named "Friend of the Taxpayer" by the S.C. Association of Taxpayers and a "Taxpayer Hero" by Gov. Mark Sanford. She has also received the Palmetto Leadership Award from the S.C. Policy Council for her expertise on policy matters and the Thurmond Excellence in Public Service and Government Award from the S.C. Federation of Republican Women for her outstanding constituent service.
Since becoming the first GOP Indian American in the nation to win a State House seat in 2004, Nikki has been named Chairman of the Freshman Caucus, Majority Whip and was recently appointed to the powerful House Labor, Commerce and Industry Committee.
Born in Bamberg, S.C. Nikki graduated from Clemson University with a B.S. degree in accounting. Nikki serves on the board of directors for Mt. Horeb United Methodist Church Medmission and the Lexington Meth Taskforce. She is a member of the Lexington County Chamber of Commerce, Lexington Rotary Club, National Association of Women Business Owners, Lexington County Republican Party and the NRA. Nikki and her husband, Michael, live in Lexington and have two children.
Here are Rep. Haley's answers to some questions posed by the Institute.
Which political word or phrase do you think is overused right now?
Common sense conservative.
What did you have to learn the hard way?
Doing what you believe is right for the people and families you represent isn't always smiled on by the power brokers in Columbia.
What is the best reward for a job well done?
There is nothing more rewarding than having someone take the time to say thank you.
What is your personal motto?
Winners do what losers don't want to.