Interview on Fox & Friends, New Hampshire Governor Chris Sununu (R) took issue with the hosts’ endorsement of former President Donald Trump in the GOP primary. The Mediaite report from January 24, 2024, highlighted Sununu’s critique, accusing the hosts of a premature “coronation” of Trump and engaging in a heated exchange over Trump’s political legacy.
Sununu, analyzing the results of the Tuesday night primary in his home state, argued that Trump would face significant challenges in the upcoming November elections. “Guys, this is all about the general election. We need winners. I want to win Senate seats and House seats and governorships. I want my candidate for president to win by double digits,” Sununu asserted.
Despite the governor’s reservations about Trump’s candidacy, Brian Kilmeade pointed out Trump’s convincing victories against Nikki Haley, Sununu’s preferred candidate, in consecutive competitions. Sununu acknowledged this but stressed that polls indicated Haley’s stronger potential performance against President Joe Biden in general election scenarios compared to Trump.
In the midst of exchanges about Trump’s candidacy and discussions on Sununu’s own presidential aspirations, Kilmeade inquired about the possibility of Haley winning over MAGA Republicans. Sununu, recognizing Trump’s steadfast support, stated, “Over Donald Trump? Well, look, no. MAGA and Donald Trump, That’s the brand, right? And that’s fine.”
The conversation delved into the nomination process, with Sununu advocating for a fair debate before any presumptive coronation of the president. He suggested, “How about we start with a debate? I mean, wouldn’t it be nice if we actually had a Fox debate where the president actually had to get on the stage and answer questions?”
The hosts objected to Sununu’s characterization of their stance, with Kilmeade frustratedly stating, “You can’t say that we’re coronating.” Earhardt, indignant, added, “A coronation’s a royal family [inaudible].”
Sununu continued to criticize the political establishment’s inclination to favor Trump without a thorough debate, mentioning RNC chairwoman Ronna McDaniel’s endorsement of Trump. The discussion reached a point of contention, prompting Steve Doocy to conclude the interview with, “Listen, there’s no debate: We had a great time in New Hampshire, Governor. Thank you very much!”
