Tim Pawlenty

“The reason that the unions and the other stakeholders have not cut a deal with the automakers is because they believe the federal government is going to bail them out.”

“If the federal government is dumb enough to give it to us, we'll be smart enough to take it. In Minnesota's case, we are not a net taker of money from the federal government.”

“I'm a market person, but there are certain circumstances where you've got to have government put up the guardrails or bust up entrenched interests before they become too powerful.”

“History has taught us over and over again that freedom is not free. When push comes to shove, the ultimate protectors of freedom and liberty are the brave men and women in our armed forces. Throughout our history, they've answered the call in bravery and sacrifice.”

“One of the things about leadership is that you've got to show up. And if you want to be president of the United States you've got to make a case to the American people that Barack Obama needs to be dismissed from his position.”

“The unions and the auto companies have been unable to put a deal together that fundamentally restructures the industry. It needs to get done. The only way it's really going to get done is in bankruptcy court. They should have done it six months ago they should do it now.”

“The federal government is responsible for addressing how to address the status of the estimated 9 to 15 million people who are in the country illegally, but local and state law enforcement can be helpful partners in that regard.”

“Cracking down on illegal immigration was a key priority when I ran in 2002, 2006, and during my time as governor. Illegal immigration is a big problem, and it needs to be strongly addressed.”

“We have to cut spending. We're - the thing is out of control.”

“It is the era of Trump, and I'm just not a Trump-like politician.”

“Legal immigration should emphasize merit and meeting the needs of the U.S., including specific unmet workforce needs.”

“When President Bush left office, the deficit was approximately $500 billion. It is now approximately now $1.5 trillion. In other words, President Obama has essentially tripled the deficit.”

“I have traveled around Minnesota and addressed many issues, and immigration is one of those issues.”

“The rising cost of prescription drugs has sparked a prairie fire that is spreading across our nation.”

“I do support enhanced interrogation techniques. Obviously their value is shining through with respect to the bin Laden killing.”

“We have a country that is $5 a gallon gas, $4 a gallon gas, we got unbearable unemployment and a federal government that is out of control. We have to take back this country and we've got to get off the sidelines and take it to President Obama.”

“In my address last year, I spoke on the issue of gaming. My preference then is my preference now: to keep gaming within its existing contours, but to explore a better deal for all Minnesotans.”

“Oil companies have played a role in suppressing the development of alternative fuels.”

“We need to be calling out the flaws and misguided decisions of the Democrats in Congress and the Obama administration.”

“We should say to private employers, if you knowingly hire illegal immigrants, there's going to be a consequence. I underline the word 'knowingly.' And you make available a system like E-Verify.”