There was nothing really special about President Obama’s last State of the Union Address. It started out okay, but nothing new was said. President Obama talked about his record then started to attack Republicans. Typical. What was worth watching, however, was South Carolina  Republican Governor Nikki Haley’s response.

That is because of Haley’s inclusive tone when speaking and also because of what she represents, the future of the Republican party. Governor Haley is the daughter of Indian immigrants. She grew up in rural South Carolina, where her family was the only Indian-American family in their town. She has struggled in her life. She has been a victim of racism and sexism. When running for Governor, a state senator referred to her as a raghead. She has been accused of having extramarital affairs, which has never been proven. She led the effort to bring down the Confederate flag from South Carolina Capitol grounds. She is leading the new effort of compassionate conservatism, which is a more inclusive tone when talking about conservative beliefs.

Haley should be the bearer of the Republican message, not Donald Trump. She was one of the first to condemn many of Donald Trump’s controversial comments. She took a jab at him during her response.

She realizes that America is becoming less white. If the GOP wants to stay a relevant party, not a minority party as Governor Jeb Bush calls it, the party needs to do better with minorities. Her story is inspiring and relatable to many and crosses over racial lines. She is a rising star to watch as the Presidential race heats up, because she could become the Vice Presidential nominee.