Nikki Haley Joins Hudson Institute as Walter P. Stern Chair

Nikki Haley, the former Indian American Republican presidential aspirant, is joining Hudson Institute, American conservative think tank based in Washington, DC, as the next Walter P. Stern Chair.

“When our policymakers fail to call out our enemies or acknowledge the importance of our alliances, the world is less safe. That is why Hudson’s work is so critical,” Haley, former governor of South Carolina and US ambassador to the United Nations, stated in a Hudson press release.

“They believe the American people should have the facts and policymakers should have the solutions to support a secure, free, and prosperous future. I look forward to partnering with them to defend the principles that make America the greatest country in the world.”

RAED: Nikki Haley drops out of Republican presidential primary (March 6, 2024)

“Nikki is a proven, effective leader on both foreign and domestic policy,” said Hudson President and CEO John P. Walters. “In an era of worldwide political upheaval, she has remained a steadfast defender of freedom and an effective advocate for American security and prosperity. We are honored to have her join the Hudson team.”

Hudson inaugurated the Walter P. Stern Chair in 2020 to commemorate the achievements of former Chairman Walter “Wally” Stern, who was instrumental in making Hudson one of Washington’s most respected research organizations.

“It is fitting that Nikki has taken on this title,” Sarah May Stern, chair of Hudson’s Board of Trustees, said. “She is a courageous and insightful policymaker and these qualities are vital in making Hudson the powerhouse policy organization it is today, and I am extremely proud that she has joined the Institute.”

Haley, 52, the first Indian American to serve in a presidential cabinet as ambassador to UN under Trump, received Hudson’s Global Leadership Award in 2018. Born Nimrata Nikki Randhawa, Haley was the second Indian American governor of a US state and the first woman to serve as governor of South Carolina (2011–17).

Haley’s new move comes after she dropped out of the Republican primary in March following a crushing defeat on Super Tuesday against former President Donald Trump. She campaigned on a moderate agenda compared to her rivals, which earned her the support of a wide range of voters.

Other renowned members like former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and former Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao joined Hudson in 2021.