BREAKING: Nikki Haley wins DC GOP primary

Nikki Haley, the ex-Governor of South Carolina, secured victory in the Republican presidential nomination race on Sunday by winning the primary in Washington, DC. However, this is unlikely to alter the overall course of the competition, which continues to be dominated by Donald Trump.

Following a three-day voting period, polls concluded at 7 p.m. Eastern on Sunday for the Washington race. While only 19 delegates were at stake, Haley found herself in a favorable position to potentially overcome Trump.

The race was called early by the Associated Press.

This race presented her best opportunity yet, considering Trump's underwhelming performance in the last competitive GOP presidential contest in 2016. In that year, Trump suffered an unusual defeat to Sen. Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) in the D.C. primary, marking a rare setback for Trump in the GOP race.

Ahead of Sunday's primary in Washington, Trump held 244 delegates, a stark contrast to Haley's mere 24.

Keen observers has predicted that Haley might have success in Washington, DC, given the establishment's disdain for President Trump, leader of the America First movement.

Haley's insistence on staying in the race is perplexing to many Republicans, given that she stands no chance of being the nominee. This has led many to believe that her participation in the race is an effort to drain resources from the GOP and Trump.

Americans For Prosperity CEO Emily Seidel recently stated that the Koch-aligned organization's political branch, AFP Action, needs to "take stock" of expenditure priorities following Nikki Haley's defeat in the South Carolina primary. Seidel mentioned that the Koch-affiliated group will redirect its attention towards competitive Senate and House races.

Haley has only committed to stay in the race up until Super Tuesday.