St. Petersburg, Florida - Four Republican Presidential Candidates have debated over and over again. They've talked about the economy, healthcare, foreign policy. But what about education?
"Let's be honest they haven't talked much about any of the issues. They talk about each other," says Don McClendon, a Democrat.
Republican Tim Callico says, "I haven't heard them talk much about education, actually."
We checked each candidate's website. Newt Gingrich has the most detailed plan laid out. Rick Santorum talks about fewer public schools on his site. Ron Paul pushes homeschooling, calling himself the "homeschooling champion." Mitt Romney's site does not list education as one of his top issues. Romney supporters are not surprised.
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"I think there's more important things to talk about right now, like talking about poor economy. Education might take a back seat to that," says Callico.
Political analysts say in a primary, candidates focus on the issues that separate one from the other. Education is one area where views overlap.
10 News Political Analyst Frank Alcock says, "This doesn't mean education isn't important, you're just not going to hear about it until we get to the general election. It won't be a big factor tomorrow."
For voters who do care about education, all four candidates agree on more charter schools, voucher use and homeschooling.
They differ on the federal government's role in education. Newt Gingrich and Rick Santorum would like to see the Department of Education shrink. Ron Paul wants the DOE shut down entirely and according to published, reports Mitt Romney likes the DOE the way it is.
"I'm a more of 'less federal government, more local government' kind of guy. When it comes to local issues, I think education falls into that," says Callico.
Santorum supporter and mother of two, Bethany Zenisek says, "I think education is important. Parents have the right to choose."
Analysts say education is one topic candidates will keep on the sidelines for now.
Alcock says, "Nobody is saying anything ambitious and exciting, or nobody is saying anything super provocative or threatening."
Are the candidates are playing it safe?
Alcock says, "Right now, yes."