Jindal: Cruz’s Iran Remarks, Not ‘Helpful,’ Critics Should Be ‘Voice of Reason’

Louisiana Governor and Republican presidential candidate Bobby Jindal argued that fellow candidate Ted Cruz’s comments that the Iran deal “will make the Obama administration the world’s leading financier of radical Islamic terrorism” were not “helpful” and that “those of us that have been opposed to this deal have been the voice of reason. I don’t think we should give up that position” on Thursday’s broadcast of CNN’s “New Day.”

Jindal was asked about Cruz’s statement He stated that he’s opposed to the deal, but “I wouldn’t have said those words. I don’t agree with those sentiments. Look, I think that those of us that have been opposed to this deal have been the voice of reason. I don’t think we should give up that position. At the end of the day, the terrorists, or the radical Islamic groups and individuals out there, and the state sponsors of those terrorists have been Iran, and some of these other countries that have sponsored some of these groups. I wouldn’t have used that rhetoric. Again, I oppose the deal, but I don’t think that rhetoric’s helpful.”

Jindal was then asked about the rhetoric in the GOP primary in general, specifically Donald Trump’s comments about illegal immigrants, and Mike Huckabee and Ted Cruz’s remarks about the Iran deal, he responded, “I know there a lot of candidates that are going to say whatever they have to say to be as outlandish as possible. Maybe they think it’ll help them get in that debate stage or move in the polls.”

He added, “I can tell you what we’re going to do, we’re focused on substance. I’m the only candidate that’s offered detailed plans on how to repeal and replace Obamacare. I’m the candidate that’s outlined specific plans on education reform where the dollars follow the child, on energy independence, on re-investing in our military. This is a serious election. What I tell the voters in Iowa, New Hampshire, and those other states, if you’re looking for somebody to manage the slow decline of our great country, don’t vote for me. If you’re looking for somebody who will go to DC and make the big changes, say and do the things you’re not allowed to do, I’m your candidate. Now, I do think voters are looking for somebody who will upset the apple cart, take on the establishment, but I think you can do that without saying outlandish statements.”

Follow Ian Hanchett on Twitter @IanHanchett

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