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Podcasts Take Two
That awkward moment: 4 campaign trail gaffes that stymied White House bids
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Apr 1, 2016
Listen 11:02
That awkward moment: 4 campaign trail gaffes that stymied White House bids
If you listen closely, you can hear the door of opportunity closing on each candidate's hopes and dreams.
Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump speaks during a campaign rally Monday, March 7, 2016, in Madison, Miss. (AP Photo/Brynn Anderson)
Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump speaks during a campaign rally Monday, March 7, 2016, in Madison, Miss. (AP Photo/Brynn Anderson)
(
Brynn Anderson/AP
)

If you listen closely, you can hear the door of opportunity closing on each candidate's hopes and dreams.

It was the gaffe heard round the political world: Republican presidential frontrunner Donald Trump was in a one-on-one interview with MSNBC’s Chris Matthews when this happened:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h1Jpoecf0xY

The Trump campaign was quick to dial back the candidate’s controversial remarks, releasing a statement just hours later attempting to clarify.

But in the digital age, even 60 minutes is more than enough time to assemble a media mob — and assemble they did. Trump’s assertions sparked quick condemnation from Democrats and Republicans alike.

This is hardly the first time a presidential hopeful has slipped up on the campaign trail. For a look back at some of the more notable blunders, Take Two spoke to Sam Popkin, professor of political science at UC San Diego, and author of the book, “The Candidate: What It Takes to Win - and Hold - the White House.”

Awkward Moment 1: “I didn’t inhale.”

CANDIDATE: Bill Clinton

election: 1992

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CeXGnSpjgNM

Awkward Moment 2: “Yeeeeeah!” (Yeah, no)

candidate: Howard Dean

election: 2004

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RwkNnMrsx7Q

Awkward Moment 3: “Oops.”

candidate: Rick Perry

election: 2012

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MyMosJdIfdo

Awkward Moment 4: “Special Gifts”

candidate: Mitt Romney

election: 2012

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M2gvY2wqI7M

Press the blue play button above to hear the full interview with clips.