Donald Trump campaign chief: John Kasich 'embarrassing' Ohio

CLEVELAND – Donald Trump's campaign chairman Monday charged that Ohio Gov. John Kasich – who doesn't plan to attend or speak at the Republican National Convention in his home state – is "embarrassing" Ohio.

Kasich political strategist John Weaver struck back, mocking Paul Manafort for his political consulting work in Ukraine and for the rocky leak and announcement of Trump's vice presidential pick, Indiana Gov. Mike Pence.

And the response from Ohio Republican chairman and Kasich ally Matt Borges: Trump's campaign manager Paul Manafort "has a lot to learn."

The war of words highlighted the awkward situation facing the Republican party. Even as it prepares to nominate the New York City real estate tycoon here, many mainstream Republicans have still not warmed to Trump – and the Trump campaign's first instinct has often been to attack any perceived enemies.

Appearing on NBC's TODAY show, Manafort said the party was united behind Trump. But asked about Kasich's absence, he said: "There were 16 candidates running, most of them are going to have a presence at the convention including all the finalists except for Kasich who, frankly, was invited to participate – I can’t answer, it makes no sense  – he’s embarrassing the state."

"He's making a big mistake," Manafort said on MSNBC's "Morning Joe."

Ohio Republican Party Chairman Borges responded at the Ohio delegation breakfast. "We love our governor!" he declared, to loud applause. No speakers at the Ohio delegation breakfast mentioned Trump by name.

Kasich beat Trump in the March 15 primary and has yet to endorse him. No Republican has won the White House without winning Ohio.