“If you want to see examples of people scared of a fascist fearmonger with a cemented lead in virtually every poll, look no further than Marco Rubio, Ted Cruz, and Reince Priebus. Where’s the condemnation from GOP leaders? Their weak responses to Donald Trump’s proposal to ban all Muslims from entering the U.S says it all: They’re cowering in Trump’s long shadow, offering tepid dodges and renewing their commitments to support a Donald Trump nomination. But they’re doomed either way — because if the GOP does work up the nerve to rebuke Trump and force him out 68% of his support will follow.“
— Jessica Mackler, President, American Bridge 21st Century
Here are Priebus, Cruz, and Rubio’s underwhelming responses:
- Reince Priebus, who speaks for the entire Republican Party, balked at the opportunity to condemn Trump, choosing to merely offer personal “disagreement”: “I don’t agree.”
- Marco Rubio, after stalling for several hours, was no more courageous in his response than was anyone else: “I disagree with Donald Trump’s latest proposal.”
Ted Cruz, whose own proposals “would effectively keep Muslim refugees out,” refused to address whether he thought Trump’s plan is constitutional, only noting: “I disagree with that proposal. I like Donald Trump.”
Published: Dec 8, 2015