Rick Santorum in The Iowa Freedom Summit & Ag Summit (preparation for Iowa Caucus)

On Civil Rights: I would never attend a same-sex wedding

The more conservative members of this Republican field--among them Cruz; Santorum; and Bobby Jindal--have aggressively emphasized their opposition to same-sex marriage. For them, the issue can be used to differentiate themselves not just from Democrats but from mainstream Republicans, like Jeb Bush, who is trying to appeal to a broader audience with an eye to the general election.

Support for same-sex marriage is increasing among Republican voters, but it is still a minority view. That creates a split between conservative Republicans looking to win a primary, and candidates seeking to win a primary without carrying too much baggage into a general election.

On Environment: Ethanol mandate brings jobs & energy independence

Rick Santorum, who won the Iowa caucuses in 2012, ticked off what he called a "laundry list" of benefits, including more energy independence and more jobs for farmers. "It is very important for rural Americans," said the former senator from Pennsylvania.

On Corporations: Pro-worker Republican; only 10% of Americans own businesses

Santorum received huge applause for decrying the Common Core and touting his last go-around in Iowa. But when he called on his party to become "pro-worker," response ranged from reluctant applause to silence.

On Education: Reform education; only 30% get college degrees

Santorum painted a picture of the country in which 70% of Americans lack college degrees. Maybe they're struggling with family breakdown or drug abuse, he said, but they still want to work hard and better themselves--they just have holes in their boats.

Supporting America's workers starts with education reform, Santorum said. Then it means reforming welfare--and that includes corporate welfare, he added.

"You want to show that you're relating to the folks who are working in America? Then we have to go out and prove it." Santorum received huge applause for decrying the Common Core and touting his last go-around in Iowa.