John Kasich claimed not to have heard about the Oregon standoff
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Ohio Gov. John Kasich repeatedly told a Des Moines Register reporter on Monday that he hadn't heard about the anti-government standoff at the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge in Oregon, which began on Saturday. Kasich, who is running for president, seemed completely unaware of the fact that rancher Ammon Bundy and his band have been dominating headlines.
Reporter: ”What do you think about the situation in Oregon, that standoff there?”Kasich: “What? I haven’t heard about it.”Reporter: “Where people took over federal land?”Kasich: “No, I haven’t heard about this. When did this come out?”Reporter: “Yesterday.”Kasich: “Yeah, I am not familiar with it. OK. I’ve got to get out of here." [The Des Moines Register]
Kasich then left for his car.
According to The Des Moines Register, about four hours later Kasich's campaign spokesman got in touch with an explanation. "[Kasich] is aware of the issue," spokesman Rob Nichols said. "This was an error in staff briefing."
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Jeva Lange was the executive editor at TheWeek.com. She formerly served as The Week's deputy editor and culture critic. She is also a contributor to Screen Slate, and her writing has appeared in The New York Daily News, The Awl, Vice, and Gothamist, among other publications. Jeva lives in New York City. Follow her on Twitter.
