Romney taps Ryan as running mate

(SOUNDBITE) (English) U.S. PRESIDENTIAL HOPEFUL MITT ROMNEY SAYING:

"Join me in welcoming the next President of the United state Paul Ryan "

Republican Presidential hopeful Mitt Romney announces his VICE presidential choice.

The setting is the battleground state of Virginia. The backdrop is a retired battleship and the music is all American.

Romney later returns to the stage to offer a correction.

(SOUNDBITE) (English) U.S. PRESIDENTIAL HOPEFUL MITT ROMNEY SAYING:

"Every now and then I am known to make a mistake, I did not make a mistake with this guy but I can tell you s he will be the next Vice President of the United States."

The announcement marks the end of a months-long search by Romney for a running mate to join him in facing Democratic President Barack Obama and Vice President Joe Biden in the November election.

The choice of Tea Party favorite Ryan puts government spending and the nation's debt in the forefront of the Presidential race.

(SOUNDBITE) (English) U.S. PRESIDENTIAL HOPEFUL MITT ROMNEY SAYING:

"Higher unemployment, declining incomes and crushing debt is not a new normal it is the result of misguided policies.

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The two will now launch a bus tour through Virginia, North Carolina, Florida and Ohio -- all states Romney needs to win in November.