Nikki Haley Realizes States Can't Secede at Will, Contrary to Earlier Beliefs | Vanity Fair

Written by Bess Levin

While prospective presidential candidate Nikki Haley is heavily engaged in her campaign, it might be beneficial for her to dedicate some time to studying American history, especially the legality of states seceding from the US.

Haley found herself in a tough spot during a recent CNN interview, needing to retract earlier statements in which she incorrectly asserted that states have the right to break away from the US. Referring specifically to Texas, Haley declared on the live interview, "If the entire state decides ‘We don’t want to be part of America anymore,’ then it's their decision," adding "I am a firm believer in states’ rights and I believe crucial decisions should be made by the people."

Nevertheless, in reality, states cannot make a decision to "not be part of America anymore." This was declared unconstitutional by The Supreme Court in 1869. When asked by CNN’s Dana Bash if she still believed in a state’s "right to secede," Haley backtracked, clarifying: "No. According to the Constitution, they can’t. However, I believe they have the right to protect themselves. Texas has mentioned secession numerous times, but the Constitution doesn’t permit it."

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Haley’s statements on secession were preceded by a series of uncomfortable remarks about omitting "slavery" as a reason for the Civil War, and then asserting that the US has never been racist, despite it once being legal to own individuals based on their skin color. As a means of defending herself, she stated, "I had Black friends growing up."

Certainly, there are worse options than Nikki Haley when it comes to choosing a GOP primary candidate based on their understanding of US history and perspective on race.