In 2011/2012 the base was looking for someone to champion conservatism as Romney wasn't a favorite from our point of view. The rumblings of a good conservative candidate, a Texas governor were all around for months as Perry decided whether or not to run. He gained support with few pronouncements and no official campaign, and became the front runner before he announced.
Once he announced and campaigned, he bit by bit destroyed his own candidacy all by himself, culminating in gaffe after gaffe in the debates.
This race that Trump is dominating has been as a result of his campaign, AND his pronouncements, AND the things he has done since the campaign started.
I'm not saying he won't flame out, just pointing out the major difference, that last time Perry destroyed his own early poll numbers, and this time Trump has earned what he has (so far).
Great insight. Thanks!