Struggling GOP presidential contender Jeb Bush reportedly laid bare his campaign trail frustrations the day he lost an endorsement in South Carolina from Gov. Nikki Haley – as equally rattled voters offered free advice that lent little comfort.
During a question and answer period following Bush's speech in Summerville, S.C., on Wednesday, the former Florida governor got an earful from three voters in a row,
Politico reports.
"The press is totally at the mercy of Donald Trump," Bush said after supporter Edward Scott expressed concern over Bush's stance on preparedness and policy "doesn't resonate."
"It appears that you do get knocked off-center like anybody would because of the insults to you and your family," Scott said, the
Washington Post reports.
"I don't think I feel shaken up by the bully," Bush answered, the Post reports. "I'm the only guy going after the guy who I believe is hijacking the party."
Another voter, David Villinger, added that Bush's campaign "has been co-opted by the P.T. Barnum of our time."
"And I think he is getting you off your good message and all the times that you've shared with us today," the Post reports. "But I think I would encourage you to emphasize those things."
"I do," Bush interjected.
"Do more," Villinger said.
"This is what I do," Bush replied.
"No, I mean, sir, on the more national level to the extent that you can," Villinger said, urging the candidate to talk more about his policy proposals in the next debate.
A third voter encouraged Bush to turn up the heat, asking Bush if he could more of "an [S.O.B.]" like his brother, President George W. Bush, the newspapers report.
Leaving the event, Jeb Bush said he was "disappointed" by Haley's decision ahead of the state's GOP primary Saturday – and dealt with all the free advice and political news with some sarcasm, the reports say.
"It's all been decided, apparently," he said. "The pundits have already figured it out. We don't have to go vote. I should stop campaigning maybe."
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