John Kasich: 'If I Get Smoked' in NH, 'the Ballgame Is Over'

Republican Ohio Gov. John Kasich says a poor showing in the New Hampshire primary next month would signal "the ballgame is over" for his White House bid.

In an interview on WABC's "Election Central with Rita Cosby," Kasich said while he feels optimistic about his chances – a recent Monmouth University survey shows him in a tie for second place with Sen. Ted Cruz – he's also realistic.

"If I get smoked in New Hampshire, then you know kind of the ballgame is over… because then it becomes very hard to raise money," he said, adding: "But I just don't think that's the way it's going to be."

"If we come out of New Hampshire as a major story, I believe I will be the nominee," Kasich added. "Because over time, experience, reform, accomplishments and knowing how to fix the country will matter."

Kasich also said he remains focused on the nation's top job – and ruled out a spot as vice president on a GOP White House ticket.

"I'm not interested," he said. "I've got the second-best job in America."

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