Nikki Haley’s husband goes to Africa for a year with the National Guard

The husband of Nikki Haley, the Republican presidential nominee and former governor of South Carolina, is preparing to go to Africa with the Army National Guard, a military tour expected to last a year and cover most of the GOP primary race.

The deployment of Michael Haley, a Major in the National Guard, was confirmed Friday by a person familiar with his plans. The person asked not to be identified because they were not authorized to speak publicly about the matter.

The deployment, his second in an active role overseas, was first reported by The associated press.

It will overlap with much of the Republican nominating competition, which has gained momentum in recent weeks as more candidates join the field. The first competitions are scheduled for early next year.

“Our family, like any military family, is prepared to make personal sacrifices when our loved one answers the call,” Ms Haley said in a statement on Friday. “We couldn’t be more proud of Michael and his military brothers and sisters. Their commitment to protecting our freedom reminds us how blessed we are to live in America.”

In 2013, Major Haley deployed to Afghanistan’s Helmand Province with the South Carolina Army National Guard, joining in 2006. When the National Guard issued a call for officers to go to Africa this spring, he stepped forward, the person who plans said, without specifying which country or countries in Africa.

Since entering the presidential race in February, Ms. Haley has trailed former President Donald J. Trump significantly in the polls, also in South Carolina, an early state primary.

Ms. Haley, who served as ambassador to the United Nations under Mr. Trump, has highlighted her foreign policy credentials and experience as governor of South Carolina.

In a split with Mr. Trump and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, another rival for the nomination, Ms. Haley has defended US involvement in the war in Ukraine. Both Mr. Trump and Mr. DeSantis have criticized it.