Pataki: It’s ‘absurd’ we’re talking about vaccines and evolution in the 21st century

Former New York Gov. George Pataki (R), who says he is considering a presidential run in 2016, on Tuesday took a shot at several other prominent Republicans who are mulling White House campaigns. 

While appearing on CNBC’s “Squawk Box,” Pataki said he didn’t think he had to go after his possible opponents to stand out in the crowded field of GOP presidential aspirants. 

“But I think it is absurd in the 21st century we’re talking about things like measles vaccines and evolution instead of things like going after ISIS before they can attack us here and reforming Washington where it’s so controlled by the special interests,” he said.

He was referring to comments made by New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie (R) and Sen. Rand Paul (R-Ky.) about whether parents should have a choice when it comes to vaccinating their child. Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker (R) also said while in London last week that he would have to “punt” when asked if he believed in evolution.

Though Pataki said he hasn’t yet decided whether to run, he said he isn’t going to make his decision based on the rest of the field.

“If you believe you have the ability to lead, to change Washington, to protect the American people, and to win an election, and I know I can win in other than just bright red states, and you sit it out when things are so bad nationally and globally — shame on you,” he said.

Pataki’s statements about a possible 2016 run have attracted some skepticism, since he has a history of considering White House bids that never come to fruition.

He hired staff to explore a run in 2008 and said he was weighing jumping into the race four years later.