(NewsNation) — Former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley, a contender in the Republican presidential primary, is more confident than ever, even as critics say it is a two-person race between former President Donald Trump and President Joe Biden.

“We started at 2% in Iowa and ended at 20%. I need to be stronger in New Hampshire, then stronger in South Carolina,” Haley said in an interview on NewsNation’s “On Balance.”

Despite facing a challenging polling situation, Haley addressed the odds stacked against her by emphasizing her commitment to representing “real normal people.”

“The energy and momentum continues to build. We had 1,200 people last night, and just now at the VFW, we had 300 people; it was crammed, packed, the energy is good. So, we’re excited,” Haley stated.

Haley pointed out that in the Iowa caucus, Trump secured victory with a slim margin, clinching only 1.5% more than half the vote. Out of the 3 million people in the state, 56,000 cast their ballots in favor of Trump. She argued that this result, while reflective of Iowa’s preferences, does not accurately represent the nation’s diversity.

“This is not a coronation. This is an election. And you go state by state. We’re going to take it one step at a time,” Haley said.

When asked about policy differences between herself and Trump, Haley highlighted economic concerns, refuting claims that she wants to cut Social Security and emphasizing the need to address the national debt.

“I am an accountant; we have got to get the fiscal situation under control. He put us $8 trillion in debt in just four years. Our kids are never gonna forgive us for that,” Haley asserted.

She also criticized Trump’s handling of trade with China, pointing to issues including fentanyl flow and intellectual property theft, as well as national security concerns.

Haley also defended her stance against Biden. She criticized Biden’s spending, border policies and handling of international affairs, asserting that electing Trump in the primaries could lead to a Kamala Harris presidency.

Haley concluded, “We want to make sure we never have a Kamala Harris for president.”