Senator Mitt Romney of Utah has responded to comparisons between the controversial dog stories that affected his and South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem’s potential presidential campaigns.
During his 2012 presidential campaign, Mitt Romney faced backlash when a story from decades ago resurfaced. The story involved him tying his dog Seamus to the roof of his car during a family road trip. This incident became a significant issue for the Republican candidate as he ran for the White House.
More than ten years have passed since then, and Noem finds herself in a similar political predicament that threatens to undermine her chances of being chosen as former President Trump’s running mate in 2024. However, Romney dismissed any connection between the two situations.
“I didn’t eat my dog, and I didn’t shoot my dog,” stated Romney in a recent interview with HuffPost. He emphasized his love for his dog and the strong bond they shared.
During his presidential campaign, the senator who is now leaving office, defended his choice to secure his dog’s kennel to the roof of his car during a 12-hour road trip to Canada in 1983, even though the Irish setter was experiencing diarrhea.
During an interview with Fox News, Romney shared that the kennel on top of their car was completely airtight and securely mounted. He emphasized that their dog frequently climbed up there and seemed to enjoy it. In addition to the kennel on the car, the dog also spent a significant amount of time in a kennel at home. Romney and his family loved their dog and ensured he was comfortable during their travels, especially with their five children inside the car.
Romney added that he believes the dog preferred staying in his kennel rather than being inside the house.
South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem has come under fire and faced widespread ridicule following revelations from her upcoming book about taking the life of her 14-month-old German wirehaired pointer, Cricket, due to the dog’s unruly behavior and lack of hunting aptitude.
Democratic governors wasted no time in teasing the South Dakota governor in light of the news. They took to social media, sharing pictures of themselves with their beloved pets. Alongside the photos, they added a playful caption that humorously highlighted the stark contrast between their loving interactions with their dogs and the shocking actions described in the news.
In a social media post on Sunday, Noem expanded upon the story and has since emphasized the anecdote as a testament to her authenticity and willingness to confront tough decisions.
Speculation has arisen that the reports have significantly impacted her chances of being chosen as Trump’s vice presidential candidate. Noem, a former congresswoman who successfully secured a second term as governor in 2022, had long been seen as one of the leading contenders for the position alongside Trump.