MADISON, Wis. — Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker is trying to chart a middle road in the debate over government surveillance in the name of national security.

Walker was asked Monday how he felt about the recent spat between two other Republicans, New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie and Kentucky Sen. Rand Paul.

Paul is from the libertarian wing of the party and has been outspoken about his concerns over government surveillance without warrants, which he calls a threat to freedom.

But Christie called on Paul to make his point to the widows and orphans of those killed in the 9-11 terrorist attacks.

Walker says he sees merit in both arguments, and believes in preserving national security while also protecting individual freedoms.

Walker, Christie and Paul are all potential 2016 presidential candidates.