President Obama says Gov. Scott Walker should "bone up on foreign policy" before pledging to revoke the new nuclear agreement with Iran if he's elected president.
In an interview with National Public Radio, Obama scoffed at Walker's comments that he would — on the first day of his presidency — revoke the pact the United States and its allies recently negotiated with Iran.
"It would be a foolish approach to take," Obama said. "And perhaps Mr. Walker — after he's taken some time to bone up on foreign policy — will feel the same way."
Obama's dig against Wisconsin's Republican governor, an all-but-certain 2016 presidential candidate, comes as the president is trying to win public support for the deal between his administration, other countries and Iran to limit Iran's nuclear weapons program in exchange for lifting some sanctions.
His comments could end up being a boon for Walker in a primary race, with Obama finding little favor with conservatives. Anytime an American president addresses an opponent by name — especially an emerging figure like Walker — it can end up elevating that rival.
Walker responded that Americans would be better off if Obama worked with Congress and governors rather than criticizing them. "President Obama's failed leadership has put him at odds with many across the country, including members of his own party, and key allies around the world," he said.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
