Republican front-runner Mitt Romney has come under attack on the eve of New Hampshire‘s primary after remarking that he likes to fire people. He was talking about inefficient health insurers, but rivals used the comment to pillory the tycoon, who built a f

Already polls on Monday showed Ron Paul and Jon Huntsman vying for second place well behind Romney in New Hampshire. However, the comments made by the frontrunner may put his leadership in danger.

Former Massachusetts Governor Romney’s answer to a question from a business group gave plenty of ammunition to rivals. “I like to be able to fire people who provide services to me,” Romney said, answering a question about healthcare insurance.

Already other GOP officials have pounced on the comment, citing that the rich front runner is completely out of touch with everyday Americans. Surprisingly though, President Obama has so far made no comments concerning Romney‘s statement.

The eventual nominee will challenge President Barack Obama in November. Rick Santorum and Newt Gingrich are vying for conservative votes, with one eye on the next race in South Carolina, while Jon Huntsman has staked his entire campaign on New Hampshire’s result.

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Park Sae-jin swatchsjp@ajunews.com