The most outrageous things Mike Pence has said

He said that smoking does not kill since two-thirds of smokers do not die from smoking-related illnesses



What he said: "Time for a quick reality check. Despite the hysteria from the political class and the media, smoking doesn’t kill. In fact, 2 out of every three smokers does not die from a smoking related illness."



When he said it: In a 2000 editorial during his House campaign. Pence did later admit that "smoking is not good for you," but asked: "What is more harmful to the nation, second-hand smoke or back handed big-government disguised in do-gooder healthcare rhetoric?" It was later reported that Pence accepted $13,000 from tobacco companies and pro-tobacco political action committees. less He said that smoking does not kill since two-thirds of smokers do not die from smoking-related illnesses



What he said: "Time for a quick reality check. Despite the hysteria from the political class and the ... more Photo: Autumn Driscoll, Staff Photographer Photo: Autumn Driscoll, Staff Photographer Image 1 of / 18 Caption Close The most outrageous things Mike Pence has said 1 / 18 Back to Gallery

Largely overshadowed by Donald Trump and the media storm that surrounds the controversial Republican nominee, vice presidential candidate Mike Pence has mostly avoided the public spotlight since being named Trump's running mate.

The Indiana governor's presence at last week's Republican National Convention was also dwarfed by a failed delegate revolt, a plagiarism scandal, and the non-endorsement from a certain Texas senator (who Pence actually endorsed before being tabbed Trump's VP).

So where does Mike Pence stand on some key issues? Let him tell you in his own words.

The slideshow above provides some notable quotes the nominee for vice president has said while serving as congressman and governor.