^{When election season gears up in November, the GOP and Democrats will go head to head, with the failing U.S. economy in the main spotlight.  Early in the process, Republicans are on the forefront battling against Obama’s democratic policies, particularly Obamacare.  All are pro-job creation, small government, tax-reduction and spending cuts.}

^{Rick Perry}

• ^{Who:  Longest running governor of Texas}
• ^{Known for: Handling of the budget balance last spring}
• ^{Main campaign focus:  Job creation}
• ^{Strong point: Promises not to raise taxes}
• ^{Controversial points:  Death penalty, Social Security}

^{Michele Bachmann}

• ^{Who:  First elected woman to the House of Representatives for Minnesota}
• ^{Known for:  Public speaking prowess}
• ^{Main campaign focus:  NOT increasing the debt ceiling}
• ^{Strong point:  Tea party backing}
• ^{Controversial points:  Gay rights, religious political leadership}

^{Mitt Romney}

• ^{Who:  Governor of Massachusetts}
• ^{Known for:   Gaining former Minnesota governor and ex-presidential candidate Tim Pawlenty’s support}
• ^{Main campaign focus:  Everything Obama did wrong}
• ^{Strong points:  Public speaking, jobs creation plan}
• ^{Controversial point:  Cloudy beliefs regarding healthcare}