JACKSON, MS (Mississippi News Now) -
Fresh off a three state win on Super Tuesday, Republican presidential candidate Rick Santorum made a campaign stop in the Magnolia State.
Santorum was in Tupelo Wednesday afternoon and then attended a rally at the Mississippi Agriculture and Forestry Museum.
Santorum was greeted by cheers as he walked on stage with his oldest daughter Elizabeth.
The Republican presidential contender took the podium at 8:25 p.m. and for nearly 30 minutes spoke to supporters about his conservative mission, his belief in country and opposition to the president and his agenda.
The GOP hopeful told Mississippians they had an opportunity to narrow the race to a conservative versus a moderate insider.
Students and adults from across the state attended the rally.
"I ask you here tonight to stand with me to join me to work with me over these next few days here in Mississippi," Santorum said. "If we win Mississippi this will be a two person race... And if this is a two person race we will nominate a conservative as president of the United States."
"His values resonate strongly with the people of Mississippi, pro family, pro life values that are known for the Republican party are values that are well known in Mississippi," said Chris Godbey, Santorum State Political Director.
"It's important to be here because it's history in the making," said Austin Smith, President of the Lincoln County Teenage Republicans. "You don't see this everyday especially not in Mississippi. You don't have a presidential candidate come down here and speak."
While Santorum received a warm reception inside, outside a small group of protesters spoke out against his position on rape, abortions and gay rights.
They waved a rainbow flag and signs.
Santorum will return to the state Sunday for rallies in Meridian and Gulfport.
Mississippians vote Tuesday, March 13th.
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