Romney: Don't expect 'huge cut in taxes'

CLEVELAND, Sept. 26 (UPI) -- Republican presidential nominee Mitt Romney cautioned voters in Ohio not to expect "a huge cut in taxes" and promised to revive manufacturing if he is elected.

Wrapping up a two-day bus tour of Ohio on the same day President Barack Obama campaigned in the battleground state, Romney told a rally of about 2,000 in Columbus Wednesday his plan to reform the tax code would feature across-the-board cuts of 20 percent in tax rates but would also reduce deductions.

"By the way, don't be expecting a huge cut in taxes, because I'm also going to lower deductions and exemptions," he said. "But by bringing rates down, we'll be able to let small businesses keep more of their money, so they can hire more people."

The comment came one day after Romney said at a rally in Ohio that Obama had not raised taxes, Politico reported.

PGA icon Jack Nicklaus advised Romney supporters it is "too late to change recent history but we can change the course for our children and grandchildren" by electing Romney.

At a town hall meeting in Bedford Heights, Romney -- flanked by several business owners -- said his policies would revive manufacturing.

Mike Rowe, host of the Discovery Channel's "Dirty Jobs," appeared at the meeting with Romney and said workers need training for a changing economy, The (Cleveland) Plain Dealer reported.

The multiple appearances in Ohio came as polls showed Obama opening a lead over Romney in the state and nationwide.

The Gallup Daily seven-day poll Wednesday showed Obama with a 50-44 lead, while an ABC News poll showed 61 percent of Americans have an unfavorable view of how Romney has handled his presidential campaign and just 35 percent have a favorable view.