KTVN Channel 2 - Reno Tahoe Sparks News, Weather, Video Santorum Tests Presidential Waters in Nevada

Santorum Tests Presidential Waters in Nevada

RENO, Nev. (AP) -- Former U.S. Sen. Rick Santorum says he's visiting Reno because he's seriously considering running for president and Nevada voters will play an important role in the 2012 election with their early presidential caucus.

The Pennsylvanian says he has a reputation as a consistent, authentic, conservative voice who won two races in a state that doesn't elect many conservatives. He said on KKOH Radio Thursday that even in defeat in 2006, he stayed true to his principles and didn't compromise his beliefs like opposition to abortion and gay marriage.

Santorum criticized Nevada Sen. Harry Reid and President Obama for their opposition to coal production. He says he believes the two Democrats actually want higher gas and energy prices to help bolster U.S. consumption of alternative sources they think are best.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)