MARQUETTE -- The race for 2012's presidential election Republican nominee kicks off tomorrow in Michigan, and the GOP hopefuls have been making their rounds throughout the state, trying to sway voters their way while voicing their criticisms of opponents.

For Tuesday's Michigan primary, recent polls have Mitt Romney in the lead with 37.8 percent and Rick Santorm at 35.3 percent.

"Senator Santorum's a nice guy, but he's never had a job in the private sector. He's worked as a lobbyist and worked as an elected official, and that's fine," said residential candidate Mitt Romney.

Among the four top candidates, Santorum is the only one who has visited the U.P., and he's hoping that could set him apart for Michigan voters.

"This is really a two person race up here in Michigan between myself and Governor Romney, and I know Governor Romney is making it out that he's the hometown guy, but he was Governor of Massachusetts, not Michigan," said presidential candidate Rick Santorum.

Ron Paul is also putting himself out there, campaigning in Detroit and Lansing.

"People are sick and tired of the wars, and they are tired of this weak economy right now," said presidential candidate Ron Paul.

But Newt Gingrich is focusing on Super Tuesday, trying to win over southern states.

"If this election's about nothing else, it should be about the choice between strength and appeasement," said presidential candidate Newt Gingrich.

Arizona's primary is also Tuesday, and their state polls show that Romney is leading Santorum.

Some experts are saying whoever wins Michigan will increase their chances of winning the Republican presidential nomination.