Romney Brushes off Flip-flopper Criticism

MANCHESTER, N.H. (AP) — Mitt Romney is brushing aside criticism he is a flip-flopper.

The Republican presidential contender won't pretend he's never changed his mind on every issue he's ever considered. He says that during his business career he learned that people have to change when facts change. If they don't, they get fired for being stubborn and stupid.

He doesn't cite any specific shifts, but critics point to changes on social issues and the economic stimulus package.

Romney's comments came in response to a question during a town hall meeting Tuesday at Saint Anselm College. He also attacked top Obama strategist, David Axelrod.

The day before, Axelrod described the president's re-election as a "titanic struggle."

Romney said it was an appropriate phrase given that the campaign is going to sink.