Republican presidential candidate George Pataki told
Newsmax TV on Thursday that frontrunner Donald Trump has been "demeaning" toward candidate Carly Fiorina and many other groups of people.
And that, the former New York governor told "The Steve Malzberg Show," makes the billionaire developer unqualified for the White House.
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"He has been demeaning towards all different groups throughout this campaign," Pataki said. "Whether it was Mexicans, African Americans, women — again, demeaning towards women."
"I don't think he's qualified or fit to be president of the United States," he added. "You said he's the man of the hour. I hope that's the case because this country faces serious problems."
"We need adult leadership that's going to solve those problems. That's why I'm running."
Shortly after Trump slammed Mexicans as "rapists" and "thugs" in his June campaign announcement, Pataki wrote other GOP contenders asking them to denounce his comments.
"I understand we have to control our border," he told Malzberg. "I understand we have to have a policy to deal with those who came here illegally, but to demonize an entire nation of people like that is just — forget about being unpresidential — it doesn't in my mind render you at all fit to be president of the United States."
But only former Texas Gov. Rick Perry responded, touching off attacks from Trump in response to his criticism.
"Rick Perry was the only one," the former governor told Malzberg, later adding that "we need someone who's willing to say what's right for America, not what some pollster or consultant tells them."
Next week, Pataki will participate in the GOP debate among second-tier candidates. CNN, one of the co-sponsors, announced the line-up Thursday.
He said his goal is simple for the debate: "For the American people to understand that I have the ability to bring people together, lead the country."
"People are going to be talking about all the things they're going to do. They're not going to be able to do them — and that's one of the things that frustrates voters with politicians."
"I have a record of doing things, regardless of the makeup of the legislature."
"Tomorrow's Sept. 11," said Pataki, who was in office in Albany when the attacks occurred. "I want them to appreciate the risk we are under from radical Islam and from terrorism right now."
"We have to be far more proactive to protect our freedom."
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