CBS Atlanta 46Rick Santorum makes campaign stop in Georgia

Rick Santorum makes campaign stop in Georgia

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FORSYTH COUNTY, GA (CBS ATLANTA) -

Republican Presidential Candidate Rick Santorum unleashed a full-scale attack on President Obama on Sunday. 

"Ladies and gentlemen, this is the most  important election in your lifetime," Santorum said. "The president is out there, his people are out there trying to wipe out anything between them and the individual."

In his first appearance since his surge in the race to become the Republican presidential nominee, Santorum ignited the crowd at First Redeemer Church with his pleas for help in fighting what he said is the president's attack on religion and freedom.

"Defend the church. Defend the family. Defend the non-profit community. Defend them against a government that wants to weaken them," Santorum said.

CBS Atlanta spoke to several people who attended the event at First Redeemer Church to get their reaction to Santorum's comments.

"I liked his dynamism," said Terry Dodd, a Forsyth County resident.  "I liked his extemporaneous nature. I like his direct response to questions. Wow."

In his speech, Santorum said he planned to cut taxes and spending while also reducing entitlement programs.

"I really appreciate his economic policy. I appreciate his faith in America, and more than that, I appreciate the concept that we the people govern this country. We are the ones who run the country, and we have gotten that out of kilter over the last couple of years," said Susan Voyles, a Forsyth resident.

Supporters said Santorum is poised for a big day when Georgia voters go to the polls March 6. 

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