Eric Cantor CPAC Speech: House GOP Leader Addresses Conservative Political Action Conference

Cantor Speaks At CPAC

House Majority Leader Eric Cantor (R-Va.) spoke to a sparse crowd at the Conservative Political Action Conference Friday.

His speech was a stark contrast to the lively addresses given earlier in the day from National Rifle Association CEO Wayne LaPierre, 2012 Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney and Gov. Bobby Jindal (R-La.).

Cantor struck a somber tone and used anecdotal stories of inner-city children in a narrow speech arguing for school choice.

"School choice is the answer," Cantor said.

His speech was not particularly partisan, although at one point he urged President Barack Obama and Democrats "to see the light."

Cantor went on to invoke an adage from former President Ronald Reagan: "If we can't make them see the light, we'll make them feel the heat," Cantor said.

The House Republican leader closed his remarks with a plea for Republican solidarity.

"Conservative ideas win," he said.

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