The news that Texas Gov. Rick Perry will join the presidential race comes as the top Republican hopefuls held a televised debate ahead of a straw poll in Iowa. Minnesota Rep. Michele Bachmann touted her opposition to the “cap and trade” energy bill, citing her measure targeting energy-smart light bulbs.

Rep. Michele Bachmann: “When it came to cap and trade, I fought it with everything that was in me, including I introduced the Light Bulb Freedom of Choice Act, so people could all purchase the light bulb of their choice. I also believe—I also believe that big government is hurting the United States. We need to have small government.”