"Donald Trump has used coarse language in remarks about Democrat Beto O’Rourke, telling supporters he was a “poor bastard” who quit the 2020 presidential race “like a dog”.

Speaking to supporters in Tupelo, Mississippi, Mr Trump launched an attack on the former Texan congressman, just hours after he announced he was ending his bid to become the Democratic challenger for 2020.

“Poor bastard,” said Mr Trump “Pathetic guy.”

He added: “”He came out of Texas a very hot political property, and he went back as cold as you can be.”

The president then mocked Mr O’Rourke’s arm gestures, adding: “What is he on?"