I’ve lived with Bush and Perry as Governors. You have no idea what you’re talking about. Perry isn’t my first choice, or even my second or third choice, but the idea that he isn’t a smart man and a savvy politician is simply born of unthinking partisanship. It is also evidence that the left lives rent free in your head.
Perry is more conservative and a much better speaker than Bush ever was. I don’t agree with all of his policies, but he is conservative overall and comes from humble beginnings, which is why the Bushes and the R establishment hate him.
I would actually prefer Perry to anyone in the race. I think pressure from the electorate would correct his down-side. But he’s come across as incompetent in his statements and debates. If he was as skilled as you think he is he can come back, but I sense a lack of ability.