The super PAC supporting former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie’s presidential bid, Tell It Like It Is, has launched a scathing ad criticizing former President Donald Trump. The ad, titled “Fool,” is a direct response to Trump’s recent controversial remarks about Hezbollah in the context of the Israel-Hamas conflict.
Governor Christie, reacting strongly to Trump’s comments, didn’t mince his words. “He’s a fool. Only a fool would make those kinds of comments,” he declared on CNN. Christie’s reaction reflects not just his disapproval but also the sentiment of many who found Trump’s statements misguided and detrimental.
The ad strategically incorporates Christie’s condemnation of Trump’s remarks. It highlights Christie’s assertion that such comments not only show a lack of concern for the American people and Israel but also provide aid to Israel’s adversaries. Christie emphasizes Trump’s self-centered approach, stating, “This is someone who cares not about the American people, not about the people of Israel, but about one person and one person only: the person he sees in the mirror when he wakes up in the morning.”
Importantly, fellow Republican Governor Ron DeSantis of Florida, who was one of Trump’s closest competitors, has also criticized Trump’s comments. DeSantis condemned Trump’s praise of Hezbollah as “very smart,” calling it absurd. He expressed disbelief that anyone, especially someone running for President, would praise Hezbollah terrorists, given their history of violence against Israelis and Americans.
The ad effectively incorporates quotes from both Christie and DeSantis, offering a balanced view within the Republican Party regarding Trump’s controversial remarks. This balance allows viewers to assess different perspectives within the party, shedding light on the internal debate sparked by Trump’s statements.
Despite the criticism and controversy, a recent RealClearPolitics poll average shows Trump leading the 2024 Republican field with 58.3% support. DeSantis follows at 12.9%, and Christie trails further behind at 2.8%. This indicates Trump’s enduring popularity among Republican voters, despite the divisive nature of his recent comments.
The ad’s straightforward approach, coupled with the direct quotes from prominent figures within the party, provides viewers, including young readers, with a clear understanding of the criticism against Trump and the contrasting viewpoints within the Republican Party.
