It's generally not helpful when Ann Romney gets all defensive

In an interview with an Iowa radio station yesterday Ann Romney lashed out at critics of her husband's campaign.

"Stop it. This is hard. You want to try it? Get in the ring,” she told Radio Iowa. "This is hard and, you know, it’s an important thing that we’re doing right now and it’s an important election and it is time for all Americans to realize how significant this election is and how lucky we are to have someone with Mitt’s qualifications and experience and know-how to be able to have the opportunity to run this country."

Back in July Ann was similarly defensive answering questions about Mitt's tax returns. "He’s a very generous person. We give 10 percent of our income to our church every year. Do you think that is the kind of person that is trying to hide things, or do things? No. He is so good about it." She added, "And we've given all people need to know and understand about our financial situation and about how we live our life."

The tone comes off as weak.

Ann has reason to crack. Campaigning on a national level day in and out for more than a year is hard. But no one's suggesting it's easy.

And because it's hard doesn't mean the campaign goes without criticism, even from the people rooting for it. Intense scrutiny in the primary is what made Mitt Romney ready for the general election. It's helpful.

Now's a good time for Ann to stop complaining.