Mitt Romney aide to reporters in Poland: 'Shove it'

WARSAW — A Mitt Romney aide told reporters to "shove it" Tuesday morning after the American press corps here shouted questions at the presidential candidate.

As Romney was walking away from Pilsudski Square toward his vehicle, reporters asked him about his string of gaffes and whether he had any comment for Palestinians, some of whom took offense at the Republican's suggestion Monday in Jerusalem that Israel's economy is superior because of cultural advantages Israelis enjoy. Romney ignored the questions and got in his car.

But his traveling press secretary was furious.

"Kiss my a - -; this is a holy site for the Polish people," said aide Rick Gorka. "Show some respect."

Gorka then told a reporter to "shove it."

Gorka subsequently called a pair of reporters to apologize, saying he lost his cool.

"It was inappropriate," Gorka said.

Romney was at the square to visit the Polish Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. After he did that, laying a wreath and greeting Polish military veterans, the GOP hopeful decided to walk down to a monument on the other side of the square.

Romney has not held a media availability for his traveling press corps since taking three questions outside 10 Downing Street in London last Thursday.

POLITICO and the Tampa Bay Times have partnered for the 2012 presidential election.