Responding to a critical comment from former US President Donald Trump, Republican candidate Vivek Ramaswamy downplayed the significance of Trump’s initial criticism of his campaign during a campaign event in Iowa’s Ankeny on Sunday, as reported by CNN. Ramaswamy expressed that he doesn’t hold it against Trump and interpreted it as potentially influenced by campaign strategy advice.
In an interview with CNN, Ramaswamy stated, “I interpret it as bad campaign strategist corporate consultant advice that he might have received, and so I don’t hold it against him. … He’s been a great president.” Despite Trump characterizing Ramaswamy’s campaign as “deceitful,” Ramaswamy maintained his respect for the former president, asserting that Trump faced legal obstacles and political opposition that would hinder his chances in a general election.
When asked about the timing of Trump’s critique and whether it suggested perceived threats to his campaign, Ramaswamy declined to speculate on Trump’s intentions. However, he reiterated his belief in a “late surge” in Iowa.
Ramaswamy’s comments follow Trump’s aggressive attack on him, urging supporters not to “waste” their votes on the Indian-American candidate. Trump labeled Ramaswamy’s campaign as “deceitful” and asserted that a vote for him is a vote for the “other side.”
In a notable reversal, Trump’s latest criticism marks a departure from his earlier positive comments about Ramaswamy during the campaign. The shift was triggered by Ramaswamy’s actions, including sharing a picture with supporters wearing “Save Trump, vote Vivek” T-shirts, and an interview in which Ramaswamy described Trump as “wounded.”
Despite the controversy, Ramaswamy expressed confidence in his campaign’s momentum in Iowa, one day before the Iowa caucuses. The final Des Moines Register poll placed him behind Trump, Nikki Haley, and Ron DeSantis, but Ramaswamy believes he will defy expectations and deliver a surprise on caucus night. He faced interruptions and tense exchanges during a campaign event in Iowa, but remains determined to secure the nomination and pursue the presidency.