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Pawlenty Targets Obama In Sharp Rhetorical Attack

AMES, Iowa (AP) -- Republican presidential hopeful Tim Pawlenty isn't holding back on his criticism of President Barack Obama.

The former Minnesota governor describes Obama as being "like a manure spreader in a windstorm." That phrasing drew loud cheers from a crowd of GOP activists Saturday at the Iowa straw poll in Ames, Iowa.

Pawlenty says Republican candidates have to show that they can back up their words with actions. He says his record as governor speaks for itself, and he notes that he served in a strongly Democratic state.

He says that's evidence that he can take conservative policies nationwide.

(© Copyright 2011 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

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