Sen. Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) criticized former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton in an interview with Katie Couric for Yahoo News, saying her policies are "20th century relics."
"If we don't begin to address 21st century problems with 21st century ideas, we're going to leave millions of people behind permanently," Rubio said. "We can't afford that. That would be a death blow to the American dream."
That line comes from the introduction to Rubio's new book American Dreams, which comes out Tuesday.
Rubio also discussed the potential 2016 field with Couric, offering his thoughts on former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush (R), Sen. Rand Paul (R-Ky.) and 2012 presidential candidate Mitt Romney (R).
"The good news about the Republican Party is that we have so many people who could be very credible candidates and formidable candidates," Rubio said. "The Democrats apparently only have one, and I think that speaks to the strength of our party."
But despite a growing number of potential GOP 2016 contenders, Rubio said he's sure he could launch a successful run for the White House.
"If I decide that the best place for me to achieve this agenda is as president of the United States, I am confident that we can raise the money and put together the organization we need to be competitive and to ultimately win."
Couric confronted the senator about some of his views that many may see as "unappealing," including his opposition to gay marriage and questions about climate change. Rubio also addressed some of his more controversial beliefs, including his view that life begins at conception and "all life is worthy of protection, especially innocent human life."
"I recognize that it's a very difficult issue. I've never claimed that it's an easy issue. You have a young girl who's 16 years old and becomes pregnant, she's scared to death. And I understand what a difficult and painful issue... and I recognize the arguments that the other side makes on it. I just personally believe that all human life is worthy of the protection of our law."
Watch Rubio discuss the presidency and more with Couric above, and see more of his interview here.
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