Verona, PA - Former Senator Rick Santorum (R-PA) announced today during an appearance on Sean Hannity's radio show that he has established a presidential exploratory committee with the Federal Election Commission, and has met all criteria required to participate in the debate sponsored by Fox News and the South Carolina Republican Party scheduled for this Thursday. 
 
"I am pleased that we have taken this important next step in the process to potentially become a candidate for President of the United States.  The debate this Thursday is a unique opportunity to put forth ideas and solutions to bring our economy back on track, and with Osama bin Laden's death, I look forward to also discussing in depth ways to tackle our many national security challenges," said Senator Santorum.
 

In addition to the debate on Thursday night, Senator Santorum will have several open press events while in South Carolina.  Details of those events will be released Wednesday morning.

To learn more about former Senator Rick Santorum, please visit >www.RickSantorum.com.

                                               

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