That was a major screw up.
Fundamentally, it's the source of all his problems.
When challenged, Perry could've explained that in-state tuition had been overwhelmingly approved by the legislature and, thus, represented the will of the Texas people.
He could've said that the federal government's failure to do its duty left the state with a problem -- several million illegal alien residents -- that, as governor, he had to deal with. And that if three years of residence and graduation from a Texas high school was the prerequisite for in-state tuition, it should be applied equally.
He could've said these things -- and conservatives would have understood his reasoning. Well, most of us, anyway.
Instead, the governor -- whom I've voted for three times (plus primaries) -- chose to attack us as somehow "heartless". He could've recognized the opposing argument as principled and treated it with respect. He didn't; he demeaned those who disagreed with him. He lashed out like a liberal -- with an ad hominem attack.
In doing so, he revealed a window to his soul. I've often described the governor as a "conservative politician, not a conservative". Maybe just "politician" would be sufficient...
At least he didn't pander -- as he has to La Raza. I'll never vote for the man again.