Romney's criticism of Trump attract cries of hypocrisy, GOP split
CBC News | Posted: March 3, 2016 10:39 PM | Last Updated: March 3, 2016
Romney had Trump's endorsement to run as the Republican nominee in 2012
Mitt Romney may have publicly condemned Donald Trump Thursday, but for many the former U.S. presidential nominee's speech came across as too little too late, if not hypocritical.
"If we Republicans choose Donald Trump as our nominee, the prospects for a safe and prosperous future are greatly diminished," Romney said.
He addressed Trump's economic policies, and criticized the presidential hopeful's call for the deportation of Mexican and Muslims immigrants. He asked Republican voters to not support Trump, claiming it would be destructive for the United States and the party itself.
"Here's what I know. Donald Trump is a phony, a fraud. His promises are as worthless as a degree from Trump University," Romney said.
Some saw his speech as hypocritical, since Romney had asked for Trump's endorsement during the 2012 presidential race.
Trump in turn accused Romney of political opportunism at a rally in Portland, Maine. He called Romney a "choke artist," that once "begged" for his endorsement.
"I could have said Mitt drop to your knees and he would have dropped to his knees."
Trump suggested Romney's speech was an act of revenge against Trump's success. He said that Romney "doesn't have what it takes" to be U.S. president.