DES MOINES, Iowa — Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty says there's nothing wrong with voters ousting judges if they disagree with their rulings, a move backed by some conservatives who oppose a state Supreme Court decision legalizing gay marriage in Iowa.
Pawlenty was in Iowa on Thursday, marking his fourth trip to the state since he opted not to seek a third term as governor. He's considered a likely candidate for the Republican presidential nomination.
In an interview with The Associated Press, Pawlenty noted the Iowa and Minnesota constitutions allow voters to toss out judges they don't like.
He says he appoints conservative judges who don't insert their personal opinions into rulings.
Pawlenty met with gubernatorial candidate Terry Branstad on Thursday, then headed for the state fair.