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Election 101: Where the GOP candidates stand on immigration, abortion and other social issues
Social policies are a defining issue in this, or any, Republican race. With the GOP electorate increasingly focused on social issues in recent decades, their leaders' views have shifted in kind. Take a look at where each of the candidates stand.
Republican presidential candidate, Texas Gov. Rick Perry addresses the 2012 Republican Presidential Candidates Forum hosted by the Republican Jewish Coalition, Wednesday, Dec. 7, 2011, in Washington. (Cliff Owen/AP)
3. Rick Perry
Immigration
Passed the Texas DREAM Act, granting undocumented immigrants college tuition under certain circumstances. Opposes border fence and E-Verify, but supports boots-on-the-ground enforcement.
Education
Pledges to ax Department of Education, supports prayer in classrooms, school vouchers, and charter schools. As governor, cut school spending and refused to compete in Obama’s Race to the Top grant contest, which he called “a federal takeover of public schools.”
Abortion
Signed legislation banning late-term abortions, mandating sonograms before abortion, and recognizing personhood of a fetus. Backs abortion in cases of rape or incest.
Health care
Home state has the highest uninsured rate in the nation. Wants to repeal the Obama law and insure more people by creating jobs that bring employer-based insurance programs. Has pledged not to repeal prescription drug benefits for seniors under Medicare.
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