What’s that you say about Paul Ryan? Political combatants weigh in

You could almost smell the smoke as the Internet blazed with reaction to Mitt Romney’s picking Rep. Paul Ryan to be his vice presidential running mate.

Republicans (and conservatives generally) say they’re thrilled. Although he’s spent his whole adult career as a Washington lawmaker, he’s viewed as a young, fresh face outside mainstream politics – not at all like those other members of Congress held as a group in very low public regard. Google “bold” and “Paul Ryan” and you get more than 3 million results.

Democrats and liberals, while moving immediately into attack mode, are happy in their own way to have a vice presidential opponent who brings (in their view) considerable political baggage – the man who would end Medicare, if not Western Civilization, as we know it.

Here’s a sampling of initial response to Mr. Ryan’s vault to the national political stage, first from supporters.

Former President George W. Bush: “This is a strong pick. Governor Romney is serious about confronting the long-term challenges facing America, and Paul Ryan will help him solve the difficult issues that must be addressed for future generations."

Former US Senator and presidential candidate Rick Santorum: "In addition to Congressman Ryan's stellar fiscal conservative positions, he is indeed a full-spectrum conservative. He is solidly pro-life, pro-family, and will be an advocate for our military and our national security priorities.”

Charmaine Yoest, president and CEO of Americans United for Life Action: “This election is a referendum on President Obama’s championing of a health care plan that is the largest expansion of abortion since Roe v. Wade.  And AUL Action welcomes Congressman Paul Ryan’s strong stance against buttressing the abortion industry with American’s hard-earned tax dollars.”

News Corp. Chief Rupert Murdoch: “Thank God! Now we might have a real election on the great issues of the day. Paul Ryan almost perfect choice.”

Fox News host Sean Hannity: “Outstanding choice Paul Ryan. America has a choice this election … Fiscal responsibility or Obama turning USA into Greece”

RedState editor Erick Erickson: "Romney picking Ryan unites moderate, liberal, and conservative Republicans while wooing independents."

1 | 2

Next