Getting beyond smears is the advantage of having won major elections.
Cain has to start almost from scratch in dealing with smears.
If this is the best they can do, he should be fine. OTOH, if this is the first drip of an organized campaign aimed to peak after he gets the nomination, it is going to be a problem.
I think Perry's behavior is one reason GWB dislikes the guy.
If Perry becomes a threat to Obama you will see these issues become National Headlines.
I am sure the establishment GOP wants it kept under wraps.