Donald Trump blames political correctness for backlash over calling women 'fat pigs'

Erin Obourn | CBC News | Posted: August 7, 2015 3:48 AM | Last Updated: August 7, 2015

Republican debate moderator Megyn Kelly challenges Trump about insults directed at women

Media | Trump on his disparaging remarks on women

Caption: 'I think the big problem this country has is being politically correct'

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Fox News host and Republican debate moderator Megyn Kelly took U.S. presidential hopeful Donald Trump to task on Thursday for making disparaging comments about women in the past, and The Donald's response was less than apologetic.

"You've called women you don't like fat pigs, dogs, slobs and disgusting animals," Kelly said. She went on to say Trump once said he wanted to see a Celebrity Apprentice contestant on her knees.

Republican front-runner Donald Trump won't rule out running as an independent

Image | TV Fox Kelly at Night

Caption: Megyn Kelly, seen here rehearsing for Fox News in 2013, asked Donald Trump on Thursday about calling women 'fat pigs, dogs, slobs and disgusting animals.' (Richard Drew/Associated Press)

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Trump responded that America is too politically correct and the country doesn't have time for it.

"And honestly, Megyn, if you don't like it, I'm sorry. I've been very nice to you, although I could probably maybe not be based on the way you have treated me," he said.

Trump takes jab at Rosie O'Donnell

Trump also said he didn't call all women names, "Only Rosie O'Donnell."

O'Donnell then tweeted, "Try explaining that 2 ur kids."

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Twitter noticed the heated exchange.

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Many responded with a virtual pat on the back to Kelly for her line of questioning.

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While Kelly's fierce personal questioning was applauded by many, some thought sticking to straight political issues was a more meaningful place to start.

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