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OTTUMWA -- The 2012 campaign for president continues in Iowa.

Former Minnesota Governor Tim Pawlenty stopped in Ottumwa on Tuesday for a town hall meeting.  About 75 people were at the Vine Coffeehouse and several asked the governor questions.

Pawlenty says he enjoys meetings like this as much as the voters do to get to know the candidate.

“People want to know ‘who are you?’” said Pawlenty.  “They want to know your record.  They want to know your vision for America.”

The former governor said he is against raising the debt ceiling.  KTVO asked Pawlenty what specific projects or programs he would cut if he were in Washington D.C. to cut spending.  Both times Pawlenty did not name one program.

“If you raise the debt ceiling get something real and permanent and structural to fix the nation’s financial problems.  That’s what I’m hoping for from the Republicans in congress in Washington D.C.  The debt ceiling issue is important for sure but it’s also important that we at least begin to address the unbelievably bad finances of this country.”

Pawlenty also added that he is the best candidate to appeal to a wide-range of Republicans and independent voters. 

Former Pennsylvania Senator Rick Santorum will also be in Ottumwa this Thursday to speak at the Vine Coffeehouse at 8 a.m.  Be sure to watch KTVO and visit our website for all your local campaigns.