Folks, I almost spilled my coffee reading this one. President Donald Trump jokingly described Texas Republican Senate candidate Ken Paxton as “a pain in the ass” during remarks in Denton, Texas, on Thursday. I mean, you’ve got to love the guy’s sense of humor, even if it is at the expense of his own ally. Trump praised Paxton’s loyalty, saying that when he had faced criticism in the past, Paxton was “at my side more than anybody.” Then he quipped, “And I have to always remember that because he could be a pain in the ass sometimes. I’ll be honest.”
You can’t help but chuckle at Trump’s candid assessment of Paxton. I mean, the guy’s got a point – Paxton hasn’t exactly been the most charismatic figure on the campaign trail. Trump has repeatedly insulted Paxton in public remarks, even though he endorsed Paxton over a safer candidate in the Republican primary and has generally sought to boost his campaign. He’s poked fun at the way the Texas attorney general dresses and talks, including at the GOP’s midterm convention, which was held in Paxton’s home state and focused heavily on him and his race.
Trump’s jokes about Paxton’s fashion sense are pretty hilarious. “Some may not like the way he dresses,” Trump said, adding: “I don’t.” I’m not sure what’s more entertaining – Trump’s insults or Paxton’s ability to take them in stride. Paxton has not in any way bit back – and Trump’s insults are often accompanied by praise for how Paxton does his job. But The New York Times on Wednesday published audio of Paxton privately complaining to conservative donors and lobbyists that the convention did more harm than good.
It’s interesting to see Paxton’s more candid comments about the convention. “So, to be honest with you, the numbers – when we did that convention – it dropped our numbers,” the Texas attorney general said. “Everybody’s numbers dropped. Right now, yeah, not good.” I’m not sure what’s more surprising – the fact that Paxton’s numbers dropped after the convention or the fact that he’s willing to admit it. Pressed earlier Thursday by CNN’s Kristen Holmes on if he had spoken to Paxton following that leaked audio, Trump said, “No, I haven’t.” When reporters asked about the audio Wednesday afternoon during an Oval Office event, he said he hadn’t heard it.
The exchange between Trump and reporters is pretty amusing. “Is he here?” Trump said in Denton. “By the way – oh, there he is. Good. I didn’t even know if he’s here.” It’s clear that Trump and Paxton have a…let’s say, “interesting” relationship. In the end, it’s all just a big show, and we’re just along for the ride. And honestly, I’m just happy to have some entertainment with my morning coffee – thanks, Trump and Paxton, for the laughs! 🙄
Armchair patriot. Believes in the free market, cold beer, and that there’s always a guy named George behind every CNN segment.
Former remote-throwing champion turned #1 couch commentator on liberal panic in the media. Born in Texas (or so his mug says), he earned a degree in Fake Newsology & Beer Philosophy from YouTube University.
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