Angus King: People ‘Responding to Trump’ Because He’s ‘Giving It as It Is’

‘They’re sort of feisty and people are looking for leaders and people that will make problems go away’

CUOMO: “Last question. Are you ready to support Trump for president yet?”

KING: “Well, I think Michael made a really good point, that between Trump and Carson — you notice I’m dodging the question —“

CUOMO: “Yes, very artfully.”

KING: “Very artfully. That’s what I do. Trump and Carson together, 49 percent of Republican vote, neither one have ever served five minutes in public office. I think that says something very interesting and deep about the state of our politics and the state of the country. They’re — People are distrustful. They’re looking for a new voice. And I think you guys sometimes are spending too much time on Trump’s issues. What does he say about September 11? What does he say about immigration? People don’t vote for issues; they vote for people. And I think a lot of people are responding to Trump not because of what he’s saying, but how he says it and the idea that, you know, he’s not kidding people. He’s giving it as it is. He’s being himself. It’s very interesting. You’ve got Trump and Bernie Sanders who are getting a lot of support because of who they are. They’re sort of feisty and people are looking for leaders and people that will make problems go away. That’s a little dangerous, though, Chris. Historically, throughout history, not only in this country but other places, when times get tough and people are unsure of themselves, they look for the man on the white horse. Somebody is going to come in and sort of take care of them. And that can be very dangerous, and dangerous for democracy because our system is based upon more than just one person having all the power.”

CUOMO: “Candor is something that has to be used the right way. Certainly that’s something you’re credited with very often. Senator King, thank you very much. And we appreciate your tacit endorsement of Donald Trump on NEW DAY this morning.”

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