It’s no secret that Fox News leans to the right, but one host may have crossed the line on Friday when he actively encouraged viewers to “vote Republican” if they didn’t like big government.

During an interview with Rep. Paul Ryan (R-WI), Fox & Friends co-host Steve Doocy seemed to endorse the congressman’s “Path to Prosperity” budget.

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“This really is kind of a campaign document because it draws a bright line between what the Republicans stand for and what the Democrats stand for,” he explained. “If you want big government, then the Democrats are your party.”

Doocy added: “Whereas, if you want a party that’s making some hard choices, vote Republican.”

During the interview, Ryan had declared his support for Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney.

“Here’s the reason why I endorsed him,” the House Budget Committee chairman said. “It’s clear to me he understands the fork in the road America is facing. It’s clear to me he understands exactly what we need to do to stop America from having a debt crisis.”

“I also think he’s the best chance of winning and defeating President Obama in the fall.”

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On Sunday, Ryan indicated that he was willing to “consider” accepting a nomination to be his party’s vice presidential nominee.

“I would have to consider it,” the Wisconsin Republican told Fox News host Chris Wallace. “But it’s not something I’m even thinking about right now because I think our job in Congress is pretty important.”

Watch this video from Fox News’ Fox & Friends, uploaded March 30, 2012.

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(H/T: Media Matters)