According to long-time Republican strategist Dave Catalfamo, former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie’s departure from the 2024 presidential race was well-timed and will likely benefit Nikki Haley in New Hampshire. 

Catalfamo also gave good scores to both of the candidates on the debate stage Wednesday night on CNN, especially Haley, who has been criticized for her performance.

“I thought she gave as good as she got. I thought she did an excellent job; I thought that she really contrasted herself with Gov. DeSantis, who actually, I think, also did a very good job,” he said. 

The two candidates sparred on a variety of issues over the two-hour debate, including Social Security, Donald Trump, energy policy, Ukraine and Israel. 

“They are far apart on foreign policy and that represents the current rift in the [Republican] party,” Catalfamo noted. “But I don’t think at the end of the day, that it will make a difference in their being elected or not, because I don’t think Americans vote on foreign policy.”

Wednesday's debate was the final one before the Iowa caucuses, which are on Monday.