Santorum: Democrats Are Right About Middle America; Wrong on Policies

GOP presidential candidate Rick Santorum is eyeing the 2016 Iowa caucuses as a chance to boost his campaign. Santorum, who won the event in 2012, recognizes the impact it can have on a candidate’s chances at winning the White House.

“Historically, Iowa has punched three or four tickets coming out… it’s an opportunity for a first, second third, maybe even fourth depending on how close it is,” Santorum said. “If you can finish in the top echelon, that’s a great start for your campaign.”

The former Pennsylvania senator noted the importance of manufacturing and job growth to the U.S. economy.

“The reality is the Democrats are right that we’ve hollowed out the middle of America,” Santorum said. “What they’re wrong about is what policies caused that – their policies have caused it. What we need to do is have pro-growth policies that make us competitive again in manufacturing, bring jobs back to this country.”

He added: “I’m the candidate that’s been sort of the blue collar candidate. The person who’s been out there articulating a message for restoring manufacturing, for creating better jobs for the 74% of Americans who don’t have a college degree. Those are the issues I think will resonate once people in Iowa start to make those decisions come January.”

Despite low poll numbers, Santorum said he isn’t concerned about receiving endorsements, and is more focused on the voters in Iowa.

“I don’t think they’re [endorsements] important,” he said. “I think what’s important is the people in the state who step up and support you, and for you to be able to go out there and articulate that message. I’m not looking for someone else to vouch for me; I’ll go directly to the people myself.”