GOP leaders in Congress silent on G-7 tirade

Republicans in Congress are often hesitant to publicly criticize President Donald Trump, even when they have strong disagreements. And the reaction after his outbursts over the Group of Seven summit was not much different.

Trump badmouthed the prime minister of Canada. Abandoned a joint statement with longtime trading partners. And soured relations with top U.S. allies in one of the most startling outbursts ever at the typically diplomatic G-7 summit.

Yet Republican leadership in Congress said little. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell declined public comment, as did House Speaker Paul Ryan. In fact, only a few Republicans said anything at all.

“There’s just some movies you don’t want to see again,” said Sen. Pat Roberts, RKan. “It was what it was.”

Sen. Mike Rounds, RS.D., said he wanted to know what provoked Trump, saying the president doesn’t usually attack first, but is more of a counter-puncher