Mike Pence is avoiding social issues in his bid to be elected governor.  But the Republican has no plans to avoid social issues if he’s elected.

Pence says the race for governor is about jobs and schools and that’s what he talks about in his campaign ads.  “People ask why are you talking about social issues,” said Gregg.  “I want to point out that I feel like a game warden.  I’m chasing a leopard that’s changed his spots.”

Gregg is frustrated because as a pro-life Democrat he thinks he is closer to the mainstream and he wants Pence to help him point out, for example, that Pence has sponsored legislation that would ban abortion even in cases of rape and incest.  “You just can’t all of a sudden say you’re about jobs,” said Gregg, “and disregard your past.”

Pence, however, isn’t running from his past.  “I am who I am and I hold the views that I hold,” he said.  He made it clear that if he becomes governor he will take action on social issues.  “I’m pro-life.  If the legislature sends me pro-life legislation,” he said, “I’ll sign it.”

It’s surprising admission since governors usually reserve judgement on any legislation until they know exactly what it says.  Pence does say that if he’s elected he will continue to make jobs his top priority, but we now know he will have other priorities, too.