Former Vice President Mike Pence pushed back on claims that he is running for president for other reasons, including repairing his legacy in the GOP, affirming that he is running to win.
Sen. Mitt Romney (R-UT), who announced he would not be seeking a second term in the Senate on Wednesday, claimed in an interview with the Washington Post that Pence is running to "repair his legacy." Pence dismissed those claims by Romney during a town hall on NewsNation on Wednesday.
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“I’m running for president of the United States because I think this country’s in a lot of trouble, and I’m running to win," Pence said.
“I’m running to win the Republican nomination, and I’m running to win a better future for American families that are struggling under the failed policies from the Biden administration at home and abroad," Pence said. "Look, I’ll leave Sen. Romney with his opinions, but the people who know me know I’m in it to win it, and not a victory for me.”
Pence then touted his record as a former congressman, governor, and vice president, saying, "I've been blessed. I've had incredible opportunities." He also discussed how he felt he "couldn't sit this one out," going into the fight for principles and ideals that he claims defined "American prosperity."
Romney, in announcing his retirement, made clear he believes that President Joe Biden or former President Donald Trump will win the 2024 election, dismissing Pence's chances of winning the Republican nomination.
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"I don’t think he has … any delusions that he’s going to become the nominee,” Romney told the Washington Post. “I think he’s running for other reasons, one to repair his legacy. … What he’s saying is important to be said. … I’m glad he’s running and saying those things. I respect that.”
Pence is currently in fifth place in the GOP presidential primary, according to the RealClearPolitics polling average. Trump leads the field with 56.1%, with Gov. Ron DeSantis (R-FL) in second place with 13%, and Pence has 4.8%.