Santorum calls Occupy protesters 'radical element'

TACOMA, Wash. — Republican presidential contender Rick Santorum says Tacoma Occupy protesters represent "true intolerance."

The former Pennsylvania senator clashed Monday night with several protesters gathered at an outdoor rally in downtown Tacoma, Wash. The event took place next to the Occupy protest camp site.

Police dragged away two protesters in the midst of Santorum's speech.

Santorum calls the Occupy protest a "radical element." He also says he respects their opportunity to protest.

Santorum is the first Republican presidential candidate to visit Washington state this year. It holds nonbinding presidential caucuses on March 3.

Santorum, who trails rival Mitt Romney in fundraising and organization, depended on the Washington Republican Party to organize Monday's event.

He campaigns in Idaho, North Dakota and Michigan later in the week.