Pawlenty Rejects Reports of Romney-Ryan Rift

Any budget disagreements between Republican presidential hopeful Mitt Romney and running mate Paul Ryan have been greatly exaggerated, former Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty told CNBC on Monday. (Related: Paul Ryan in His Own Words)

“Gov. Romney says he’s going to have his own plan. Look, he’s applauded and acknowledged Congressman Ryan’s plan and said he views it, overall, favorably. But he’s going to have his own plan. He’s already got elements of his own plan,” he said in an interview to be aired on “The Kudlow Report.” (Related: Romney-Ryan: No Good for Stocks)

Pawlenty, who was rumored to have been considered for the No. 2 spot on the Republican ticket, downplayed any divergence between the two politicians. (Related:Wealthiest Voters May Like Romney Even More Now)

“There are some differences, as there are always going to be with two people, but directionally they’re moving in the same direction, and Gov. Romney has said very favorable things about Congressman Ryan’s plan,” he said. (Related:Gingrich’s VP Candidate Choices for Romney)

WATCH the full interview with former Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty.

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