Pence talks Security, Run for President

FORT WAYNE, IND. (WANE) - Congressman Mike Pence talked to NewsChannel 15’s Matt McCutcheon about a variety of issues in the New Year, including the economy, national security, and a potential run for President in 2012.

Despite the Winter Blast Thursday afternoon, Pence held town hall meetings in preparation for the upcoming session on Capitol Hill. In a sit down interview with NewsChannel 15, he said there’s a lot of work to be done during that session.

"This is about jobs and spending. The American people are tired of the failed economic policies of this administration and this congress. From the time they've passed their stimulus bill, we've seen unemployment rise from 7.5% to 10% nationally," Pence said.

National Security is another concern. Just back from a visit to Afghanistan, Congressman Pence says alleged terrorists shouldn't be offered the same legal rights as Americans.

"I think most Hoosiers were appalled to see the Underwear Bomber in Detroit was immediately read his rights, provided an attorney at taxpayer expense, and is now being given access to the due process afforded to American citizens in our criminal courts. We ought to continue to prosecute the War on Terror as a war," Pence said.

With so much criticism about the nation's current leadership, it begs the question: What does Pence's future hold?

“Will your name be on the list for contenders for President,” NewsChannel 15’s Matt McCutcheon asked. “Well... I don't know. If I'm re-elected in 2010, we'll take a look at a number of opportunities. I'm devoting all of my energy and all of my attention to winning back the congress and the statehouse for conservative values and we'll let the future take care of itself,” Pence said.

Click the VIDEO tab to watch the full wane.com bonus video interview with Congressman Pence.