Santorum Commits To First 2012 Debate

Former Senator Rick Santorum (R-Pa.) has committed to participating in the first Republican debate of the 2012 campaign season.  

“I look forward to participating in the debate process that will allow me to share my views on the issues of the day as well as my vision for the future of our country,” Santorum said in a statement. “I hope others considering a run will also commit to this important debate.”

Added Santorum, “I believe this debate will give each of us an opportunity to demonstrate that we are more than just loud critics; we are leaders offering solutions and alternatives to President Obama’s failed policies.”

Santorum, who lost his Senate seat in 2006, has flirted with a Presidential run for months. In February, he made an appearance at CPAC and he has made the traditional rounds in Iowa and New Hampshire, both key primary states. He is expected to receive significant support from social conservatives if he makes his run official.

However, he has thus far refrained from making an official announcement or establishing an exploratory committee, explaining that the health his 2 year old daughter, who suffers from a serious genetic disorder, will influence his final decision.

The debate, sponsored by Fox News, will be held in South Carolina early next month.