>>>Apparently, Carson himself disagrees with your take on it.<<<
Yep, because he knows its ultimately HIS mistake. By digging in his heels and trying to make this into something way more than it is, he is trying to change the narrative, look tough, and cover for his campaign’s ineptitude. Because no matter what was or wasn’t said about his campaign - HE STARTED IT by sharing his inexplicable travel plans with the press. WHERE WAS THIS OUTRAGE when Trump was comparing him to a child molester, mocking his conversion story, and savagely ridiculing his character? THAT did far more damage to him as a candidate, both in Iowa and beyond, than anything that happened Monday night.
His is not a winning strategy. The longer this stays out there, the more the truth will undermine him. And frankly, joining with Trump in this “dirty tricks in Iowa, we need a new caucus” shtick, will not broaden his base, and will likely alienate some of his supporters. He demanded an apology and received one. Its time to move on to New Hampshire.
I expect Carson to announce the suspension of his campaign at the National Prayer Breakfast. You know, the one he already suspended on Monday.