If Occupy Wall Streeters who disrupted Rick Santorum’s campaign event in Tacoma, Wash., Monday thought they could intimidate the surging Republican presidential candidate, they quickly learned otherwise.
The protesters occupied the front row of seats at the Washington State History Museum and raised a ruckus,
Politico reports. After two demonstrators were taken away in handcuffs by police, Santorum said, “I think it’s really important for you to understand what this radical element represents, because what they represent is true intolerance.”
The protesters should “go out and get a job ... instead of standing here unemployed, yelling at somebody,” Santorum said. The crowd appreciated his stance, chanting “get a job” at the Occupiers.
Santorum represents the first Republican presidential candidate during this campaign to visit Washington, which skews Democratic. “I know everybody says, ‘Oh this is a blue state,’ ” he said.
“This is a state that loves and reveres freedom and opportunity. This is a fiercely independent state [that] understands how you can take something small and grow it into something great.”
Santorum acknowledged the state’s Democratic leanings, but voiced confidence that can change. “Your voices are not heard enough in this state, but they will be in November.”
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