Texas Gov. Perry not a 2012 candidate just yet
By PHILIP ELLIOTT and BRIAN BAKST Associated Press © 2011 The Associated Press
June 18, 2011, 10:28AMNEW ORLEANS — A candidate in waiting, Texas Gov. Rick Perry is elbowing the Republicans already in the 2012 presidential race as he courts party activists, operatives and donors still shopping for someone to back against President Barack Obama.
His appearance Saturday at the Republican Leadership Conference could offer another tantalizing hint that he's ready to upend a crowded field of candidates who have worked months to amass name recognition, organization and campaign cash. The longest serving governor of his state is drawing much interest despite little effort.
He long insisted he wouldn't run. But in recent weeks, he has softened his refusals and his advisers have started laying the groundwork for a campaign in Iowa.
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I was watching the “Round Table” discussion last evening and their discussion about the candidates — lot’s of Perry buzz.