Former President Donald Trump's South Carolina primary win over former UN ambassador Nikki Haley was the culmination of a longstanding effort by the ex-president to cut off his potential and eventual rivals as he seeks to win back the White House.
Despite Haley serving as South Carolina's governor for six years, Trump eventually won the critical primary contest by over 20 points, reflecting his continued appeal among GOP voters — especially among the state's strong conservative base.
From Trump running up the score in rural regions of the state to his overwhelming support with evangelical voters, here are five major factors that contributed to his South Carolina victory: