GOP congressman blows off Bob Corker’s anti-Trump remarks: He’s just mad he’s not Secretary of State

A controversial member of the Freedom Caucus lashed out at Sen. Bob Corker (R-TN) to defend President Donald Trump during a combative interview with MSNBC anchor Katy Tur.

Congressman Matt Gaetz (R-FL) has been described as "the Trumpiest Congressman in Trump's Washington."

Tur asked about Sen. Corker's conclusion that the Republican Party has become a "cult-like" organization dedicated to President Trump.

"Is the GOP a cult?" Tur asked to start the interview.

"The GOP is not a cult," Rep. Gaetz replied. "We're a party built on principles that right now are increasing economic opportunity for millions of Americans."

"Do you think that lawmakers in your party who don't agree with the president are able to speak out and disagree with him without getting the wrath of the president, without getting the wrath of the voters?" Tur asked.

"Well, this is politics, nobody pitches underhand," he answered. "And if people oppose the agenda of any politician, they're likely to receive some response from that person. that's what -- that's how things work in a democracy."

Tur returned to criticism of the party from Sen. Corker, noting his frustration that Republicans would not even stand up to the White House on tariffs.

"I think that Sen. Corker is a little upset that he got passed over for Secretary of State," Rep. Gaetz suggested.

"You think it is a personal issue for Bob Corker?" Tur asked.

"I do," he replied.

Tur also had to repeatedly ask Gaetz about whether he supported the administration's policy of separating children from their families at the border. In the end, Rep. Gaetz admitted he did support Trump's policy.