Trump Calls Out Vivek Ramaswamy's 'Deceitful Campaign Tricks' Disguised As 'Support'

In the latest political news, former President Donald Trump has publicly criticized fellow Republican, Vivek Ramaswamy, just days ahead of the Iowa caucuses. The critique reportedly appeared on Trump’s Truth Social platform.

What Happened: Ramaswamy, who has consistently shown his support for Trump throughout his campaign, was taken to task by Trump for campaign t-shirts bearing the slogan “Save Trump, Vote Vivek”. The former president saw this as a cunning maneuver to gain support, with the shirts suggesting Trump’s return to the presidency is impeded by a “deep state,” reported Vanity Fair

“Vivek started his campaign as a great supporter, ‘the best President in generations,’ etc.," Trump said on Truth Social. "Unfortunately, now all he does is disguise his support in the form of deceitful campaign tricks."

Trump’s campaign advisor, Chris LaCivita, echoed his sentiments, branding Ramaswamy as a “FRAUD” and a “FAKE,” as per the same Vanity Fair report. The timing of Trump’s public criticism appears strategic, with the Iowa caucuses imminent. Concerns within Trump’s camp suggest that Ramaswamy could potentially erode Trump’s support base.

A recent poll by NBC News/Des Moines Register/Mediacom Iowa shows Ramaswamy’s support base among likely Iowa caucusgoers has risen from 5 percent in December to 8 percent.

Why It Matters: The recent controversy follows Ramaswamy’s unconventional campaign strategies which have previously come under scrutiny as reported by Benzinga. His aggressive tactics and confrontational style have been met with disapproval by fellow GOP members.

Despite trailing behind Trump in the polls, Ramaswamy has garnered notable support within the GOP. This was highlighted by Iowa Rep. Steven Holt, who switched allegiance from Florida Governor Ron DeSantis to Ramaswamy just days before the caucuses, as reported by Benzinga.

Ramaswamy has also made headlines for his stance on Trump’s disqualification from running for office in certain states. He vowed to withdraw his candidacy in Maine and Colorado if Trump was disqualified, as noted by Benzinga.

Photo by Consolidated News Photos on Shutterstock

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