A recent political rally in New Hampshire gained widespread attention when Governor Chris Sununu openly mocked former President Donald Trump.
In a video clip that has gone viral, Sununu referred to Trump as “surrounded by losers” and expressed disdain at some of the controversial rhetoric used by Trump and his close associates. The remarks have sparked debate and controversy in political circles, given Sununu’s status as a moderate Republican governor.
Governor Chris Sununu Throws Shade at Trump
The Republican Governor of New Hampshire, Chris Sununu, has mocked former President Trump on several occasions recently. According to sources, Sununu asserted that Trump was “surrounded by losers” and could “barely keep a cogent thought” when off a teleprompter.
During an interview on Fox News’ The Faulkner Focus, Governor Sununu bluntly referred to those recently endorsed Trump as “losers.” He also commented on Trump’s age, saying, “This is the guy blaming Nikki Haley for Jan. 6 … If he’s off the teleprompter, he can barely keep a compelling thought. This guy is nearly 80 years old.”
Trump Hits Back
In response, Trump took to Truth Social to criticize Sununu, writing, “Why does Fox keep putting New Hampshire Governor Chris Sununu on??? Every time I mention his name at a Rally, they BOOO like crazy. He’s all jacked up on something, but he ran for President without having the courage to announce and did poorly. To have this loser on so much is really bad TV.”
The feud between Trump and Sununu continued at a rally in New Hampshire, where Trump claimed that Sununu “didn’t have the guts” to run for President officially despite exploring the option. Trump described Sununu as “terrible,” “nothing,” and “bad news.”
The Context Behind Sununu’s Comments About Trump Being “Surrounded by Losers“
There is a history of tension between Trump and Sununu. According to reports, Trump claimed during a rally in New Hampshire that Sununu “didn’t have the guts” to run for President despite exploring a presidential bid. Trump called Sununu “terrible” and “all over the place.”
Trump mocked Sununu for going on “every show” to announce he would not run for President, claiming Sununu thought he was “hot stuff” but was “nothing.” Sununu has criticized Trump for hurting Republican electoral prospects, claiming Trump made it difficult for Republicans to win in 2022.
Sununu Says GOP Needs to Move Past Trump to Win in 2024
Governor Chris Sununu of New Hampshire asserted that the Republican party needs to move past former President Donald Trump to win the 2024 presidential election. In an interview, Sununu stated that Trump’s presence on the ballot hurts the GOP’s chances in Senate and gubernatorial races nationwide.
He expressed his support for Nikki Haley, the former governor of South Carolina, claiming that she “doesn’t just win, she wins the swing states; she makes it easy to win everything else.” Sununu argued that the Republican party should have achieved more significant victories in the 2022 midterm elections.
He is Not Mentally and Physically Healthy
Sununu has publicly criticized Trump’s mental and physical health, claiming that “Trump has no energy – the guy can barely read a teleprompter right now.” While Trump remains popular among Republican voters, Sununu argues that nominating Trump as the party’s presidential candidate in 2024 would severely damage Republican prospects in swing states and closely contested elections.
According to political analysts, Sununu’s decision not to run for re-election as governor of New Hampshire in 2022 improves Democrats’ chances of winning the governorship, indicating that Sununu’s criticisms of Trump may resonate with independent and swing voters.
Sununu Seen as Potential Alternative to Trump in 2024
New Hampshire Governor Chris Sununu has emerged as a vocal critic of former President Donald Trump and is viewed by some as a potential alternative candidate for the Republican presidential nomination in 2024. The governor’s disdain for Trump has angered the former President’s supporters, who booed Sununu at a Trump rally. In response, Trump claimed that Sununu “didn’t have the guts” to run for President himself.
However, Sununu’s popularity and success in New Hampshire, a crucial early-voting state, positions him as an intriguing option for Republicans seeking an alternative to Trump. Sununu won his fourth term as governor in 2020, showing his crossover appeal.
What This Means for Trump’s Standing Within the GOP
Governor Sununu’s biting criticism of the former President signals the growing rift within the Republican party. While Trump still enjoys widespread support from the GOP base, his actions surrounding the events of Jan. 6 and his continued propagation of false election fraud claims have alienated some mainstream Republicans.
Sununu, who did not seek re-election in 2022, has emerged as a vocal Trump critic. His assertion that the former President is “surrounded by losers” and “can barely keep a cogent thought” reflects the view that Trump’s rhetoric and behavior are damaging the Republican brand.
Trump Remains Popular Despite the Jabs
However, Trump remains enormously popular with Republican voters. His rallies continue to draw large crowds, and candidates who have earned his endorsement have found success in primary elections. Trump’s sway over the base poses a dilemma for Republican leaders who want the party to move on from his divisive legacy.
While alienating Trump could fracture the GOP, continuing to indulge his claims of election fraud and other conspiracies risks further undermining faith in democratic institutions. The schism between Trump loyalists and Republicans like Sununu, who want the party to chart a new course, will shape the 2024 presidential primaries.
Trump Wants to Run, and He Believes He Should
Trump has hinted at running again, but his age and legal troubles cast doubt on a potential comeback campaign. If Trump opts not to run, the field will likely be crowded with candidates vying to inherit his base.
Sununu’s criticism illustrates the difficult position in which Trump has placed the GOP. Republican leaders must balance energizing their pro-Trump base with appealing to more moderate voters who remain wary of the former President. How they navigate this challenge will be crucial to the party’s electoral success over the coming years.
Sununu is an Antagonist Seeking to Undermine Trump
Trump and his allies view Sununu as an antagonist seeking to undermine the former President’s influence in the Republican Party. Sununu is considered a potential contender in a post-Trump era, appealing to both establishment and Trump-skeptical Republicans.
Sununu’s criticism of Trump risks further straining an already tenuous relationship with the former President’s base in New Hampshire and nationwide. However, Sununu remains a popular figure in his state, and his opposition to Trump could elevate his standing with anti-Trump Republicans and independents ahead of 2024.
Sununu’s Possible Presidential Aspirations for 2024
Several factors point to Governor Chris Sununu’s potential presidential aspirations in 2024. As a popular four-term Republican governor in a swing state, Sununu could position himself as a moderate candidate who appeals to independent voters.
Sununu has openly criticized former President Trump, calling him “terrible” and claiming “he can barely keep a cogent thought.” Sununu mocked Trump’s advanced age, saying, “This guy is nearly 80 years old.” Such attacks indicate Sununu sees Trump as an opponent, not an ally, in 2024.
Is it Even Possible for Sununu to Win?
However, Sununu’s path to the presidency faces significant obstacles. He would have to win over pro-Trump Republicans, who loudly booed him at a Trump rally. Trump, who wields considerable influence over the GOP base, has harshly denounced Sununu as “a loser” and “bad news.”
Sununu’s centrist record could also hamper his chances in a Republican primary. He has taken moderate stances on issues like abortion, LGBTQ rights, and gun control that contrast with the party’s rightward shift under Trump. While appealing to independents, these positions may alienate hardline conservatives.
Is It all Fun and Games?
While political figures often use humor in public speeches, Governor Sununu’s mocking comments aimed at a former president set a concerning precedent. Leaders should thoughtfully consider how their words might divide citizens along partisan lines or inflame tensions.
Moving forward, elected officials from all political backgrounds would be wise to choose their words carefully and lead by promoting unity over hostility. There are substantive policy debates to be had, but personal attacks erode public discourse.
Moving Forward with Constructive Solutions
Rather than focusing on tearing each other down, Governor Sununu and his critics could work together to find common ground and solutions that benefit all citizens of New Hampshire.
Ultimately, moving past personal attacks and focusing on policy solutions that bring people together may be the best path forward for New Hampshire and the nation. While political differences will always exist, we share the common goals of a strong, just and prosperous society.
Focus on Using Public Media Outlets for The Good of The People
While public figures have a First Amendment right to freedom of speech, they also have a responsibility to use their platforms in a way that benefits society as a whole. Governor Sununu and all other elected officials should focus their media interactions on sharing key facts, data and expert opinions on issues to help citizens make informed choices.
Governor Sununu and others would do well to reflect on how they can best utilize the public’s trust and attention to improve society rather than inflame divisions for political gain. With hard work and goodwill, our leaders have the power to shape a more just, inclusive and prosperous future for all.
