Republican candidates trade barbs at Iowa debate

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Veteran Expediter
BBC
Eight Republican presidential candidates are offering a mix of tax cut proposals and attacks on President Barack Obama at a debate in Iowa.

The candidates are jockeying for position in the nomination race, mainly against front-runner Mitt Romney.

Michele Bachmann and Tim Pawlenty traded barbs, and others touted their experience as governors.

Meanwhile on Thursday, Texas Governor Rick Perry said he would join the 2012 nomination race.

Mr Perry was expected to announce his candidacy in South Carolina on Saturday, reports said. A spokesman said Mr Perry would make his intentions "very clear".

The news came hours before the eight Republican rivals began the third debate of the 2012 race, days before most of his rivals take part in the Iowa straw poll in Ames.

The candidates hope to win the Republican nomination to face President Barack Obama in the November 2012 general election.

The Republican field has been slow to take shape this year, although the first balloting will not be held until February in Iowa



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