GOP presidential contender Ben Carson is predicting "a lot of movement" ahead of the first-in-the-nation Iowa caucuses, but insists his political options are wide open – including a run for Congress – if a White House bid fails.
In an interview with WABC radio's
"Election Central With Rita Cosby," the retired pediatric surgeon
confirmed reports he considered taking on the role of House Speaker before former Speaker John Boehner stepped down.
"I talked about it seriously because I, too, am concerned about the lack of action," he tells Cosby adding: "I would certainly hope to have made a difference because I am not a chicken."
WABC Radio provided the audio of the interview, which was conducted Friday.
Carson –
falling to fourth place in a national averaging after commanding the second spot behind front-runner Donald Trump – insists his political future is open – including a possible run for Congress if he doesn't become the Republican standard-bearer.
"I wouldn't rule out anything," he said. "I keep all options open at all times."
On other issues, Carson:
- Predicts there will be "a lot of movement in the next few weeks" before the Iowa caucuses, adding: "I suspect all the pundits are going to be scratching their heads the day after the [caucuses] ...wondering, 'How come we didn't see this?'"
- Defends his foreign policy expertise. "You'll find out that my depth is much greater than most of the people running who just have these 30 and 60 second soundbites," he asserts.
- Maintains it's fair to question former President Bill Clinton on his past relationships with women, saying "It certainly is fair game to talk about morals and values... There is such a thing as right and wrong," adding: "He's hoping it will blow over, be swept under the rug…."
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