Rick Perry 2012 presidential campaign

{{Short description|American political campaign}} {{Use mdy dates|date=August 2025}} {{Infobox election campaign | name = Rick Perry for President 2012 | logo = 200x200px | logo_size = | logo_alt = | campaign = Republican primaries U.S. presidential election, 2012 | candidate = '''Rick Perry''' 47th governor of Texas (2000–2015) | affiliation = Republican Party | status = | formed = | announced = | launched = | suspended = | headquarters = Houston, Texas | key_people = Rob Johnson (manager) Joe Allbaugh, David Carney (advisors) Wayne Hamilton (political director) Ray Sullivan (communications director) Nelson Warfield (spokesman) Curt Anderson (media consultant) Deirdre Delisi (policy and strategy director) Tony Fabrizo, Mike Baselice (pollsters) Margaret Lauderback (director of finance) <ref name="p2012tao">{{cite web |publisher=P2012.org |title=Talent and Organization |url=http://www.p2012.org/candidates/organization12p.html |date=January 17, 2012 |access-date=January 19, 2012 |archive-date=October 20, 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111020163607/http://www.p2012.org/candidates/organization12p.html |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref name="polpksaa">{{cite web |work=Politico|title=Perry Key Staff and Advisers |url=https://www.politico.com/2012-election/rick-perry/campaign-insiders/index.html |access-date=January 19, 2012}}</ref><ref name="tick111024">{{cite news |first=Holly |last=Bailey |work=The Ticket |publisher=Yahoo! News |title=Rick Perry hires Bush's 2000 campaign manager in staff shakeup |url=https://news.yahoo.com/blogs/ticket/rick-perry-hires-veteran-gop-operatives-campaign-shake-205923595.html |date=October 24, 2011 |access-date=January 19, 2012}}</ref> | receipts = {{US$|20,588,252}} | fec_date = 2012-06-30 | slogan = | themesong = | chant = | website = {{usurped|1=[https://web.archive.org/web/20120117182729/http://www.rickperry.org/ Rick Perry for President]}} (archived - Jan, 17, 2012) }}

The '''Rick Perry presidential campaign of 2012''' began when Rick Perry, four-term Governor of Texas, announced via a spokesman on August 11, 2011, that he would be running for the 2012 Republican Party nomination for president of the United States.<ref name="cbs110811">{{cite news |work=CBS News |agency=Associated Press |title=Rick Perry to run for president, spokesman says |url=https://www.cbsnews.com/news/rick-perry-to-run-for-president-spokesman-says/ |date=August 11, 2011 |access-date=January 11, 2012}}</ref>

Perry was considered as a potential candidate since as early as the 2008 presidential election, initially denying he was interested in the office but later becoming more open-minded. He formally launched his campaign on August 13, 2011, in Charleston, South Carolina.<ref name="nyt110813">{{cite news |first=Ashley |last=Parker |work=The New York Times |title=Promising Better Direction, Perry Enters Race |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2011/08/14/us/politics/14perry.html |date=August 13, 2011 |access-date=January 11, 2012}}</ref> While he was initially successful in fundraising and was largely considered a serious contender for the nomination, he struggled during the debates and his poll numbers began to decline. After finishing fifth with just over 10% of the vote in the Iowa caucuses on January 3, 2012, Perry considered dropping out of the presidential race but did not.<ref name="reu120104">{{cite news |first=John |last=Whitesides |work=Reuters|title=Perry may drop presidential bid after Iowa |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-usa-campaign-perry-idINTRE8020LC20120104 |date=January 3, 2012 |access-date=January 11, 2012}}</ref><ref name="lat120103">{{cite news |first=Michael A. |last=Memoli |work=Los Angeles Times |title=Rick Perry suspending campaign after disappointing finish in Iowa caucuses |url=https://www.latimes.com/news/politics/la-pn-rick-perry-suspend-campaign-20120103,0,7870108.story |date=January 3, 2012 |access-date=January 1, 2012}}</ref> After a poor showing in New Hampshire and with "lagging" poll numbers in South Carolina, Perry formally announced he was suspending his campaign on January 19, 2012.<ref name="nyt120119a">{{Cite news |first1=Jeff |last1=Zeleny |first2=Michael D. |last2=Shear |work=The Caucus |publisher=The New York Times |title=Perry to End Bid for Presidency |url=http://thecaucus.blogs.nytimes.com/2012/01/19/perry-to-end-bid-for-presidency/ |date=January 19, 2012 |access-date=January 19, 2012}}</ref>

== Draft efforts == Perry had persistently denied aspirations to higher office; he was originally included on the 2012 Presidential Straw Poll ballot at the Values Voter Summit in September 2009, but his name was removed at his own request.<ref name="cnn090918">{{cite news |url=http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2009/09/18/texas-gov-rick-perry-pulled-out-of-conservative-straw-poll/ |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130102082336/http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2009/09/18/texas-gov-rick-perry-pulled-out-of-conservative-straw-poll/ |url-status=dead |archive-date=January 2, 2013 |publisher=CNN|title=Texas Gov. Rick Perry pulled out of conservative straw poll |date=September 18, 2009 |access-date=May 22, 2010}}</ref> In April 2008 while appearing as a guest on CNBC's ''Kudlow & Company'', he specifically stated that he would not agree to serve as vice president in a McCain administration, stating that he already had "the best job in the world" as governor of Texas.<ref name="polw101226">{{cite news|url=http://politicalwire.com/archives/2010/12/26/quote_of_the_day.html |work=Political Wire |title=Quote of the Day |date=December 26, 2010 |access-date=December 26, 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110715102236/http://politicalwire.com/archives/2010/12/26/quote_of_the_day.html |archive-date=July 15, 2011 }}</ref>

Further, during a Republican gubernatorial debate in January 2010, when asked if he would commit to serving out his term if re-elected, he replied that "the place hasn't been made yet" where he would rather serve than the governor of Texas. In December 2010, when asked if he was a "definite maybe" to run for president in 2012, he replied, "a definite no, brother".<ref name="polw101226"/>

On May 27, 2011, he said he was "going to think about" running for the 2012 Republican presidential nomination after the close of the Texas legislative session.<ref name="wtm110527">{{cite news |first=Ralph Z. |last=Hallow |work=The Washington Times |title=Texan Perry to 'think about' a 2012 White House run |url=http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2011/may/27/texas-gov-perry-think-about-2012-white-house-run |date=May 27, 2011 |access-date=August 16, 2011}}</ref> Perry said in a response to a question from a reporter, "but I think about a lot of things," he added with a grin. Republican donors persistently asked Perry to run for office, and the efforts to draft Perry intensified in July and August 2011 until he decided to run. It was later reported by the Associated Press that Perry had called many of his warm contacts and done aggressive networking throughout 2011, and used Texas state phones to do so.<ref name="bg111206">{{cite news |first=Jack |last=Gillum |agency=Associated Press |work=The Boston Globe |title=Perry called top donors from work phones |url=http://archive.boston.com/news/politics/articles/2011/12/06/perry_phoned_top_donors_ahead_of_presidential_bid_1323156582/ |date=December 6, 2011 |access-date=January 18, 2012}}</ref> The use of government phones for election and campaign activity is considered an ethical violation of an elected office. The Associated Press noted that its investigation was incomplete because the Perry administration had "censored dozens of calls [from the records] for privacy reasons, and his schedules in recent years contain only partial information". A spokesman for the Governor's office insisted that the calls were all official government business.<ref name="bg111206"/>

==Campaign developments==

===Beginning=== {{Wikinews|Texas governor Rick Perry to announce his presidential intentions | Texas governor Rick Perry enters presidential race}} On August 11, 2011, a Perry spokesman said that he would be running for president, with plans to announce his formal entry into the race two days later.<ref name="cbs110811"/><ref>{{cite news |work=The Blade |location=Toledo, OH |url=http://www.toledoblade.com/Politics/2011/08/11/Texas-Gov-Perry-draws-conservative-criticism-on-immigration.html |access-date=December 4, 2011 |title=Spokesman says Texas Gov. Rick Perry is running for president |agency=Associated Press|date=August 11, 2011}}</ref> Perry himself confirmed it on a visit to KVUE, the ABC affiliate in Austin, the state capital. As the Associated Press bulletin announcing his entry into the race came across the wire, Perry signed and dated a printed copy of the bulletin.<ref>Bergamo, Jim. [http://www.kvue.com/news/Spokesman-says-Perry-running-for-president-127546663.html Spokesman says Perry running for president]. Odessa, TX: KVUE. August 11, 2011.{{Dead link|date=January 2012}}</ref>

On August 13, 2011, in a speech at Charleston, South Carolina, Perry officially announced that he would be a candidate for the Republican nomination.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/nation/la-naw-rick-perry-20110814,0,6232946.story |access-date=August 16, 2011 |work=Los Angeles Times |title=Texas Gov. Perry jumps into 2012 Republican race |agency=Associated Press |date=August 13, 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110814081622/http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/nation/la-naw-rick-perry-20110814,0,6232946.story |archive-date=August 14, 2011 }}</ref> He later stated that it was his wife, Anita, who encouraged him to run for president, as he was happy being governor of Texas.<ref>{{cite news| url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/republicans/8797753/Rick-Perry-My-wife-prodded-me-to-enter-presidential-race.html | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111001053035/http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/republicans/8797753/Rick-Perry-My-wife-prodded-me-to-enter-presidential-race.html | url-status=dead | archive-date=October 1, 2011 | location=London | work=The Telegraph | first=Toby | last=Harnden | title=Rick Perry: My wife prodded me to enter presidential race | date=September 29, 2011}}</ref>

Perry said Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke should stop printing more money to stimulate the economy, saying it was "treasonous" and that he would be treated "pretty ugly down in Texas" for his actions.<ref name=autogenerated2>{{cite news| url=https://blogs.wsj.com/washwire/2011/08/15/perry-warns-bernanke-it-could-get-pretty-ugly-in-texas/?mod=WSJBlog | work=The Wall Street Journal | first=Danny | last=Yadron | title=Perry Warns Bernanke: It Could Get 'Pretty Ugly' in Texas | date=August 15, 2011}}</ref> He also criticized Barack Obama for not serving in the military, saying, "The president had the opportunity to serve his country. I'm sure at some time he made the decision that isn't what he wanted to do."<ref name=autogenerated2 />

On August 17, 2011, at a breakfast with business leaders in New Hampshire Perry said that he does not believe the science behind global warming. He said "there are a substantial number of scientists who have manipulated data so that they will have dollars rolling into their projects."<ref>{{cite news |work=CBS news |first=Brian |last=Montopoli |date=August 17, 2011 |title=Rick Perry suggests global warming is a hoax |url=https://www.cbsnews.com/news/rick-perry-suggests-global-warming-is-a-hoax/ |access-date=February 10, 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Rick Perry accuses scientists of 'manipulating' climate data |first=Suzanne |last=Goldenberg |author-link=Suzanne Goldenberg |date=August 18, 2011 |access-date=February 10, 2017 |newspaper=The Guardian |url=https://www.theguardian.com/environment/blog/2011/aug/18/rick-perry-scientists-climate-data }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Rick Perry's made-up 'facts' about climate change |first=Glenn |last=Kessler |author-link=Glenn Kessler (journalist) |date=August 18, 2011 |access-date=February 10, 2017 |newspaper=The Washington Post |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/fact-checker/post/rick-perrys-made-up-facts-about-climate-change/2011/08/17/gIQApVF5LJ_blog.html}}</ref>

===Make Us Great Again Super PAC=== Because of Perry's comparatively late entry into the race, he was behind other candidates in fundraising and was under pressure to raise money quickly. Questions were raised about his fundraising methods. For one, his campaign was supported by a super PAC called "Make Us Great Again".<ref name="vogel"/> A super PAC is allowed to raise unlimited funds from individuals{{Citation needed|date=February 2012}} and even from corporations, which cannot contribute to federal candidates, but the super PAC is required to be completely independent from the campaign.<ref>{{Cite news | last = Eggen| first = Dan |author2=T. W. Farnam | title = New 'Super Pacs' bringing millions into campaigns | newspaper = The Washington Post | date = September 28, 2010 | url = https://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/09/27/AR2010092706500.html| access-date =August 18, 2011 }}</ref>

Make Us Great Again was created and headed by Mike Toomey, who had been Perry's chief of staff.<ref name="vogel"/> This arrangement was criticized as illegal by Fred Wertheimer, the president of the watchdog group Democracy 21, who said, "The idea that such a PAC is going to be independent from the campaign is ridiculous."<ref name="vogel">{{Cite news | last = Vogel| first = Kenneth P. | title = Rick Perry's cash dash sparks worries| newspaper =Politico | date = August 16, 2011| url = https://www.politico.com/story/2011/08/perrys-cash-dash-sparks-worries-061451 | access-date = August 18, 2011}}</ref> Perry's former legislative director, Dan Shelley, is also running a pro-Perry super PAC.<ref>{{Cite news | last = Ramsey| first = Ross| title = Another Super PAC Run by Close Perry Associates| newspaper = The Texas Tribune| date = August 8, 2011 | url = http://www.texastribune.org/texas-politics/2012-presidential-election/another-super-pac-run-close-perry-associates/ | access-date =August 18, 2011 }}</ref> Perry's longstanding feud with Karl Rove may be another factor in his Super PAC fundraising, as Rove is a key advisor to many major Republican donors.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2011/08/17/rick-perry-s-war-with-the-bushies-why-karl-rove-is-fighting-his-2012-bid.html |title=Daily Beast: Perry's War With the Bushies |website=The Daily Beast |access-date=September 10, 2010}}</ref>

Perry took the fundraising lead in his first reporting period. The biggest source of his donations was from employees of George Brint Ryan's tax and accounting firm.<ref>Schouten, Fredreka; Schnaars, Christopher (October 16, 2011). [https://www.usatoday.com/news/politics/story/2011-10-16/perry-romney-fundraising/50796252/1 "Romney, Perry tap different sources for fundraising"]. ''USA Today''.</ref> As of January 16, 2012, the PAC had spent $3.96 million on promoting Perry's campaign.<ref>{{cite news | title = The Republican candidates and their "super PAC" benefactors | date = January 16, 2012 | url = https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/the-republican-candidates-and-their-super-pac-benefactors/2012/01/16/gIQADasB4P_graphic.html | newspaper = The Washington Post | access-date = January 18, 2012}}</ref>

===September 2011: Early struggles in debates=== {{Main|Republican Party (United States) presidential debates, 2012|Straw polls for the Republican Party presidential primaries, 2012}}

Perry's performances in the GOP debates received generally poor reviews from the media. His botched attempt to criticize Mitt Romney as a flip-flopper in a debate held in Orlando, Florida was described as a "spectacular failure."<ref>{{cite news | url=http://hotair.com/archives/2011/09/23/video-perry-blows-attack-on-mitt-and-the-debate/ | title=Video: Perry blows attack on Mitt — and the debate | work=Hot Air | date=September 23, 2011| access-date=February 6, 2014 | author=Morrissey, Ed}}</ref> His speech was so garbled that Mark Hemingway of the ''Weekly Standard'' asked if Perry had suffered a stroke,<ref name="mccain20110923">{{cite news | url=http://spectator.org/archives/2011/09/23/perrys-slide-continues | title=Perry's Slide Continues | work=The American Spectator | date=September 23, 2011 | access-date=October 13, 2011 | author=McCain, Robert Stacy | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111012054016/http://spectator.org/archives/2011/09/23/perrys-slide-continues | archive-date=October 12, 2011 | url-status=dead }}</ref> and Brit Hume of Fox News stated that Perry, "at a time when he needed to raise his game, I mean, he did worse, it seems to me, than he had done in previous debates." However, Paul Burka, senior executive editor at ''Texas Monthly'', said "Eventually the debates will end, and retail politics will take center stage. I think Perry will have an advantage in that format because he is better at the meet-and-greet and connecting with people than Mitt Romney is."<ref>Philpott, Ben (September 28, 2011). [http://www.texastribune.org/texas-politics/2012-presidential-election/perry-faces-tougher-tests-national-stage/ "For Perry, Pitfalls Line Path to Recovery"]. ''The Texas Tribune''.</ref>

Perry lost many conservatives' support when he defended the Texas policy of allowing in-state tuition for the children of illegal immigrants. He said during one debate that those who opposed financially supporting their education didn't "have a heart."<ref>{{cite news| url=https://www.cbsnews.com/news/rick-perry-calls-other-white-house-hopefuls-heartless-toward-illegal-immigrants/ | archive-url=https://wayback.archive-it.org/all/20110924152925/http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-503544_162-20110488-503544.html | url-status=live | archive-date=September 24, 2011 | work=CBS News | title=Rick Perry calls other White House hopefuls heartless toward illegal immigrants }}</ref> He was later forced to spend much of his time on the campaign trail defending the law, saying it was compassionate conservatism, was a state-only issue, and was well-intentioned because it would turn those citizens into productive, taxpaying members of society.<ref name=CBSArpaioEndorse>{{cite news| url=https://www.cbsnews.com/news/perry-gets-support-from-get-tough-sheriff-joe-arpaio-of-arizona/ | work=CBS News | title=Perry gets support from get-tough Sheriff Joe Arpaio of Arizona}}</ref>

After he mishandled a question about how he would respond to a "3am call" as president, Perry's advisers insisted that he get more sleep before the remaining debates.<ref>McGregor, Richard (September 28, 2011). [http://www.ft.com/intl/cms/s/0/a6f933d0-e958-11e0-af7b-00144feab49a.html 'DC's cage wars{{'"}}]. ''Financial Times''.</ref><ref>Zeleny, Jeff (October 9, 2011). [https://www.nytimes.com/2011/10/10/us/politics/perry-campaign-works-to-smooth-out-flaws.html "After Rocky Start, More Study and Sleep for Perry"]. ''The New York Times''.</ref> However, Alex Castellanos said of his next performance, at Dartmouth College, that the next time he should bring a mattress.<ref>MacAskill, Ewen (October 12, 2011). [https://www.theguardian.com/world/2011/oct/12/mitt-romney-gop-presidential-debate "Mitt Romney's performance leaves others on the sidelines in GOP debate"]. ''The Guardian'' (London).</ref> Perry admitted after the event that "Debates are not my strong suit."<ref name="boerma20111012">{{cite news | url=https://www.cbsnews.com/news/rick-perry-says-debates-are-not-my-strong-suit/ | title=Rick Perry says 'debates are not my strong suit{{'-}}| work=CBS News | date=October 12, 2011| access-date=October 13, 2011 | author=Boerma, Lindsey}}</ref> Perry's performance in the Las Vegas debate was better received, at least in comparison to the other GOP hopefuls.<ref>Oliphant, James; Abcarian, Robin; Geiger, Kim; Memoli, Michael A. (October 19, 2011). [https://www.latimes.com/news/politics/la-pn-vegas-debate-wrap-20111019,0,4264476.story "Recapping the GOP debate: Mitt's snit, Cain's crash, Perry's push"]. ''Los Angeles Times''.</ref>

Perry finished in second place in the 2011 California, Florida, Michigan and National Federation of Republican Women's Convention straw polls.<ref>Burns, Alexander; Haberman, Maggie (September 25, 2011). [https://www.politico.com/story/2011/09/perrys-pain-is-cains-gain-in-fla-064343 "Rick Perry rebuffed as Herman Cain wins Florida straw poll"]. ''Politico''.</ref><ref>[https://www.cbsnews.com/news/romney-bests-perry-in-michigan-straw-poll/ "Romney bests Perry in Michigan straw poll"]. Associated Press. CBS News. September 25, 2011.</ref><ref>Haberman, Maggie (September 18, 2011). [https://www.politico.com/story/2011/09/paul-wins-california-straw-poll-063758 "Ron Paul wins California straw poll"]. ''Politico''.</ref><ref>Terrell, Anthony (October 2, 2011). {{usurped|1=[https://web.archive.org/web/20120216152946/http://firstread.msnbc.msn.com/_news/2011/10/02/8100971-cain-wins-another-straw-poll?google_editors_picks=true "Cain wins another straw poll"]}} . NBC News.</ref> He later placed fourth in the Values Voter Summit straw poll and then fifth in the Midwest Leadership Conference and South Carolina tea party straw polls.<ref>Schwarz, Gabriella (October 10, 2011). {{usurped|1=[https://web.archive.org/web/20111011112412/http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2011/10/10/conservative-leader-discounts-paul-win/ "Conservative leader discounts Paul win"]}}. ''Political Ticker''. CNN.</ref><ref>Acosta, Jim. (October 15, 2011). {{usurped|1=[https://archive.today/20120713050723/http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2011/10/15/cain-wins-big-in-south-carolina-tea-party-straw-poll/ "Cain wins big in South Carolina tea party straw poll"]}}. CNN.</ref>

He continued at around fifth place until he dropped out of the race.<ref>Pearson, Rick (November 5, 2011). [https://www.chicagotribune.com/2011/11/05/illinois-gop-fundraising-straw-poll-goes-to-ron-paul/ "Illinois GOP fundraising straw poll goes to Ron Paul"]. ''Chicago Tribune''.</ref>

===October 2011: Facing difficulties=== October 2011 was a poor month for his campaign, as his debate performances, scrutiny from conservatives, negative media attention, and the rise of Herman Cain's popularity caused his viability to sink. His wife, Anita Perry, reflected on the "rough month", saying he was being "brutalized" by his opponents for his Christian faith.<ref>{{cite web|author=NBC's Ali Weinberg |url=http://firstread.msnbc.msn.com/_news/2011/10/13/8304304-anita-perry-reflects-on-campaigns-rough-month |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111013174918/http://firstread.msnbc.msn.com/_news/2011/10/13/8304304-anita-perry-reflects-on-campaigns-rough-month |url-status=dead |archive-date=October 13, 2011 |title=First Read - Anita Perry reflects on campaign's 'rough month' |publisher=MSNBC |access-date=July 17, 2012}}</ref>

In October 2011, the ''Washington Post'' reported that Perry's family leases a hunting camp once called "Niggerhead". According to some local residents interviewed by the ''Post'', the Perrys used the camp for years before painting over a large rock with that name on it, which stands at an entrance to the area, and during this time Perry hosted friends and supporters at the camp.<ref>{{Cite news|title=At Rick Perry's Texas hunting spot, camp's old racially charged name lingered|url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/national/rick-perry-familys-hunting-camp-still-known-to-many-by-old-racially-charged-name/2011/10/01/gIQAOhY5DL_story.html|date=October 1, 2011|first=Stephanie|last=McCrummen|newspaper=The Washington Post|access-date=October 3, 2011}}</ref> Perry was criticized as being "insensitive" by Republican primary rival Herman Cain. Perry's campaign disputed the claims made by Cain and the ''Post'', stating that the Perrys painted over the rock almost immediately after acquiring a lease on the property in 1983.<ref name="camp">{{cite web|url=https://www.politico.com/story/2011/10/perry-team-pushes-back-on-cain-064926|title=Perry team pushes back on Herman Cain criticism|first=Alexander|last=Burns|work=Politico|date=October 2, 2011|access-date=October 3, 2011}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|title=Republican Rick Perry in hunting lodge race row|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-15155042|date=October 3, 2011|work=BBC Newss|access-date=October 3, 2011}}</ref>

Following the controversy, Perry's record on racial issues was scrutinized. The suggestion was made that allowing the use of the Confederate flag amounted to racism. He was criticised for having defended a display of Confederate symbols<ref name="rebel">{{cite web|url=http://www.businessinsider.com/rick-perry-faces-scrutiny-for-defending-display-of-confederate-flag-2011-10|title=Rick Perry Faces Scrutiny For Defending Display Of Confederate Flag|website=Business Insider }}</ref> and having allegedly run "race-baiting" ads during his 1990 campaign against liberal activist and Democrat Jim Hightower for Texas agriculture commissioner. The ads pictured Hightower next to Jesse Jackson while a voice-over asks "Does Agriculture Commissioner Jim Hightower share your values?"<ref name="hightower">{{cite news|url=https://abcnews.go.com/blogs/politics/2011/10/rick-perry-accused-of-running-race-baiting-ads-in-1990/|title=Rick Perry Accused of Running 'Race-Baiting' Ads in 1990|work=ABC News|first=Arlette|last=Saenz|date=October 3, 2011|access-date=October 4, 2011}}</ref>

The ads were criticized for their racial content by leaders in Texas's congressional black caucus, fellow members with Hightower of the Democratic Party. However, several black Texas Democrats, such as former state Senator Ron Wilson and current Senator Royce West, defended Perry against accusations of racism, with Wilson saying, "He doesn't have a racist bone in his body. He didn't then, and he doesn't now." and West pointing to "many things he has done that were sensitive to ethnic minorities".<ref name="hightower"/>

Perry's links to the New Apostolic Reformation and its founder C. Peter Wagner, who helped organize Perry's prayer rally The Response, also received scrutiny by enemies of Perry. Perry has said he does not necessarily endorse the views of Wagner, who has advocated publicly burning religious images and claimed that Japan is controlled by demons because its emperor had sex with the sun goddess.<ref name="wagner2">{{cite news|url=http://www.dallasnews.com/news/politics/headlines/20110718-rick-perry-says-he-doesnt-endorse-extremists-participating-in-prayer-meeting.ece|title=Rick Perry says he doesn't endorse extremists participating in prayer meeting|first=Christy|last=Hoppe|date=July 18, 2011|work=The Dallas Morning News}}</ref><ref name="wagner1">{{cite news|url=https://www.npr.org/2011/10/03/140946482/apostolic-leader-weighs-religions-role-in-politics|title=A Leading Figure In The New Apostolic Reformation|date=October 10, 2011|publisher=NPR}}</ref>

===Media campaign and recovery attempts=== [[File:Joe Arpaio by Gage Skidmore 2.jpg|thumb|Perry won the endorsement of Sheriff Joe Arpaio,<ref name=CBSArpaioEndorse /> known nationally for his opposition to illegal immigration. The two campaigned together beginning in November 2011.]] Perry's campaign, which announced that it had raised $17 million in early October, was well-positioned to endure a long and costly campaign against Mitt Romney.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.politico.com/story/2011/10/perry-haul-signals-long-gop-slog-065261 |title=Rick Perry fundraising haul signals long GOP slog - Alexander Burns and Jonathan Martin |date=October 5, 2011 |publisher=Politico|access-date=July 17, 2012}}</ref> His campaign invested hundreds of thousands of dollars in television and radio advertisements in early states, and was able to finance serious ground operations. The commercials were positive and focused on his tax plan, energy initiatives, and jobs record as Texas governor.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.politico.com/story/2011/11/gaffe-rocks-perry-rescue-mission-068115 |title=GOP debate gaffe rocks Rick Perry rescue mission - Ben Smith and Maggie Haberman |date=November 10, 2011 |publisher=Politico|access-date=July 17, 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Smith |first=Ben |url=https://www.politico.com/blogs/ben-smith/2011/11/perry-mail-hits-iowa-040729 |title=Perry mail hits Iowa - Ben Smith |publisher=Politico|date=November 10, 2011 |access-date=July 17, 2012}}</ref>

Perry put forward a flat tax proposal that would allow taxpayers to choose either their tax rate under existing law or a flat 20% rate. The plan would also eliminate taxes on Social Security benefits and inheritances. Asked if his tax plan would help wealthy taxpayers, Perry said he was not concerned about that because a lower tax rate would encourage greater investment and job creation by the wealthy.<ref>Camia, Catalina (October 25, 2011). [http://content.usatoday.com/communities/onpolitics/post/2011/10/rick-perry-flat-tax-economic-plan-/1 "Rick Perry proposes flat tax, balanced budget"]. ''USA Today''.</ref><ref>{{Cite news|title=Rick Perry Tax Plan: Touting Job Creation, Perry 'Doesn't Care' If Plan Is Huge Tax Cut for Rich|url=http://www.ibtimes.com/articles/237942/20111026/rick-perry-tax-plan-rick-perry-tax-reform-flat-tax.htm|date=October 26, 2011|first=Ashley|last=Portero|work=International Business Times|location=New York|access-date=October 31, 2011}}</ref> His tax plan was promoted as being so simple and easy that a taxpayer could calculate it on the back of an index card.

Perry hired several high-profile Republican media advisers on October 24, 2011, and began launching more negative television ads against Mitt Romney.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.politico.com/story/2011/10/perrys-new-team-066743 |title=Rick Perry's new team - Maggie Haberman |date=October 24, 2011 |publisher=Politico |access-date=July 17, 2012}}</ref> Perry's new media team was described as aggressive by ''Politico,'' which noted that many had worked for Governor Rick Scott's 2010 campaign in Florida which it described as using "brass-knuckled tactics". One political analyst predicted that "Perry won't just go negative. He'll make your television bleed and beg for mercy".<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.politico.com/news/stories/1011/66768_Page3.html#ixzz1g3chhIPn |title=Rick Perry readies assault on Mitt Romney - Alexander Burns and Maggie Haberman |publisher=Politico |access-date=July 17, 2012}}</ref>

Perry joked freely during a speech he delivered at an annual banquet in New Hampshire. When clips of it went viral on the Internet, there were negative interpretations. ''Politico'' offered the idea that the way the video was cut suggested he was under the influence of alcohol or medicine, something Perry later denied.<ref>Epstein, Reid J. (November 4, 2011). [https://www.politico.com/story/2011/11/nh-speech-puts-perry-on-defensive-067602 "New Hampshire speech puts Rick Perry on defensive"]. ''Politico''.</ref> New Hampshire Republican officials defended Perry, saying the speech was well received by the audience.<ref>{{cite news |title=New Hampshire Republicans defend Perry speech |url=http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2011/11/03/new-hampshire-republicans-defend-perry-speech/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111104031534/http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2011/11/03/new-hampshire-republicans-defend-perry-speech/ |url-status=dead |archive-date=November 4, 2011 |publisher=CNN|date=November 3, 2011 |first=Rachel |last=Streitfeld |access-date=November 17, 2011}}</ref>

=== November 2011: "Oops" moment and continued struggles ===

At the November 9, 2011, Republican debate, Perry began a fiery statement about his platform, pledging to eliminate three government agencies as part of his policy to cut federal spending, but after naming the Departments of Education and Commerce, was unable to remember the name of the third agency, eventually declaring "I can't. The third one, I can't. Sorry. Oops."<ref>{{cite news|last=Blake|first=Aaron|title=Rick Perry's 'Oops' in Republican debate could have long-lasting implications for his campaign|url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/the-fix/post/rick-perrys-oops-in-republican-debate-could-have-long-lasting-implications-for-his-campaign-video/2011/11/09/gIQAqUBr6M_blog.html|access-date=November 15, 2011|newspaper=HuffPost|date=November 8, 2011}}</ref> A few minutes later, Perry said that the agency he had been trying to think of to eliminate was the Department of Energy (he would later become the Secretary of Energy under the Trump administration).<ref>{{cite web|url=http://factcheck.org/2011/11/cnbc-debate-slim-pickings-for-factcheckers/ |title=CNBC Debate: Slim Pickings for FactCheckers. |publisher=Factcheck.org |date=November 10, 2011 |access-date=July 17, 2012}}</ref> ''The Guardian'' called it "one of the most humiliating debate performances in recent US political history", and reporters asked him if he was going to continue in the race after that gaffe.<ref>MacAskill, Ewen (November 9, 2011). [https://www.theguardian.com/world/2011/nov/10/rick-perry-forgets-agency-scrap "Rick Perry forgets agency he wants to scrap in Republican debate disaster"]. ''The Guardian'' (London).</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/election-2012/post/rick-perry-makes-light-of-gaffe-vows-not-to-quit/2011/11/10/gIQAli0t8M_blog.html?hpid=z1|title=Rick Perry makes light of gaffe, vows not to quit|date=November 10, 2011|newspaper=The Washington Post|access-date=November 10, 2011|first=Debbi|last=Wilgoren}}</ref> "Oh, my God, it was just horrible. Just horrible", said Mark Greenfield, Hamilton County, Iowa GOP chairman and a key supporter of Perry, who expected that the incident likely ended Perry's campaign.<ref name="clayworth20111110">{{cite web | url=http://caucuses.desmoinesregister.com/2011/11/10/iowa-reaction-to-rick-perrys-horrible-debate-performance/ | title=Key Perry supporter in Iowa: This could mean end of his campaign | work=Des Moines Register | date=November 10, 2011 | access-date=October 3, 2012 | author=Clayworth, Jason}}</ref>

Perry joked off the incident.<ref>{{cite web | url= http://tvbythenumbers.zap2it.com/2011/11/10/rick-perry-presents-top-10-rick-perry-excuses-on-tonights-late-show-with-david-letterman-video-preview/110355/ | archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20111112160417/http://tvbythenumbers.zap2it.com/2011/11/10/rick-perry-presents-top-10-rick-perry-excuses-on-tonights-late-show-with-david-letterman-video-preview/110355/ | url-status= dead | archive-date= November 12, 2011 | title= Rick Perry Presents "Top 10 Rick Perry Excuses" on Tonight's ''Late Show with David Letterman'' (Video Preview)| work= TV by the Numbers | publisher= Zap2it | date= November 10, 2011 | author=Robert Seidman| access-date=November 11, 2011}}</ref> Observers have speculated that he may have had a natural "retrieval failure" as a result of stress put on him by past poor debates and personal pressure to shine at the event.<ref>{{Cite news|title=Perry's 'brain freeze',' by another name, is common 'retrieval failure{{'-}}|url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/national/health-science/perrys-brain-freeze-by-another-name-is-common-retrieval-failure/2011/11/10/gIQAkIoq9M_story.html|date=November 10, 2011|first=Joel|last=Achenbach|newspaper=The Washington Post}}</ref> In a later debate, he called for the United States to start foreign aid at zero and require each country to justify and be accountable for the aid it receives. During the debate, he was immediately asked how he would address Israel's foreign aid, which is over $30 billion. He reassured the commentators that Israel was a "special ally" for the United States and would receive "significant" aid.<ref>Montopoli, Brian; Condon, Stephanie; Daly, Corbett B. (November 13, 2011). [https://www.cbsnews.com/news/cbs-news-nj-gop-debate-winners-and-losers/ "CBS News/NJ GOP debate: Winners and losers"]. CBS News.</ref>

In an ad released in November 2011, Perry slammed President Barack Obama for saying, "We've been a little bit lazy I think over the last couple of decades."<ref>{{cite web |title=Rick Perry does 'lazy' ad Web video |url=https://www.politico.com/story/2011/11/perry-does-lazy-ad-068511 |work=Politico |date=November 16, 2011 |first=Maggie |last=Haberman |access-date=November 17, 2011}}</ref> While many Republicans joined Perry in condemning the remarks,<ref>{{cite web |title=Obama's 'lazy' remark catches fire |url=https://www.politico.com/story/2011/11/obamas-lazy-remark-catches-fire-068534 |work=Politico |date=November 16, 2011 |first1=Jonathan |last1=Allen |first2=Alex |last2=Isenstadt |access-date=November 17, 2011}}</ref> the ad was criticized as misleading by some in the media.<ref>{{cite web |title=Perry's 'Lazy' Ad Against Obama Misleading |url=http://blogs.cbn.com/thebrodyfile/archive/2011/11/17/perrys-lazy-ad-against-obama-misleading.aspx |publisher=CBN News |date=November 17, 2011 |first=David |last=Brody |access-date=November 17, 2011}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Fact check: Obama's 'lazy' comment taken out of context |url=https://www.usatoday.com/news/politics/story/2011-11-17/obama-lazy-comment-romney-perry/51271866/1 |work=USA Today |first=David |last=Farley |date=November 17, 2011 |access-date=November 17, 2011}}</ref> Perry went on to say that the "lazy" remark suggested that Obama "grew up in a privileged way".<ref>{{cite web |title=Perry says Obama 'grew up in a privileged way{{'-}} |url=http://firstread.msnbc.msn.com/_news/2011/11/16/8848876-perry-says-obama-grew-up-in-a-privileged-way |publisher=MSNBC |date=November 17, 2011 |first=Carrie |last=Dann |access-date=November 17, 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111118101042/http://firstread.msnbc.msn.com/_news/2011/11/16/8848876-perry-says-obama-grew-up-in-a-privileged-way |archive-date=November 18, 2011 |url-status=dead }}</ref>

In the same week, he challenged House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi to a debate about overhauling Congress. Perry argued for the U.S. Congress to halve its members' salaries and create a shorter, more part-time, schedule so Congressmen would have to "go back home, have a real job, and live under the laws that they pass in Washington, DC."<ref>{{cite web|last=Peterson |first=Kyle |url=http://www.islandpacket.com/2011/12/08/1890103/rick-perry-campaign-swings-through.html#ixzz1g3h6zNy8 |title=Rick Perry campaign swings through Beaufort, Bluffton |publisher=islandpacket.com |date=December 8, 2011 |access-date=July 17, 2012}}</ref> Pelosi declined and mocked Perry's November 9 debate performance.<ref>{{cite news|title=Perry picks fight with Pelosi; she declines debate dare for other plans, mocks 54-second pause|url=http://www.startribune.com/politics/national/134078963.html|work=Star Tribune|location=Minneapolis|first1=Jeff|last1=Amy|first2=Laurie|last2=Kellman|date=November 17, 2011|agency=Associated Press|access-date=December 8, 2011|archive-date=December 20, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241220171641/https://www.startribune.com/politics/national/134078963.html|url-status=dead}}</ref> The ''San Francisco Chronicle'' printed a story on November 17 citing a sharp downturn in fundraising for the Perry campaign, which was attributed to gaffe-marred debates.<ref>{{cite news| url=https://www.sfgate.com/politics/article/Rick-Perry-fundraising-hit-after-debate-gaffes-2289214.php | work=San Francisco Chronicle| first=Richard S. | last=Dunham | title=Rick Perry fundraising hit after debate gaffes | date=December 13, 2011}}</ref>

===Appeals to Christian voters=== thumb|250px|Rick Perry at a campaign stump in December 2011 Perry became more outspoken about his Christian faith and his opposition to gay-related issues beginning in December 2011. Following the exit of Herman Cain, he told potential voters that, like Cain, he did not support the repeal of "don't ask don't tell".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ontopmag.com/article.aspx?id=10277&MediaType=1&Category=26 |title=Rick Perry Reminds Herman Cain Supporters That He Objects To Open Gay Service |publisher=Ontopmag.com |date=December 6, 2011 |access-date=July 17, 2012}}</ref>

==== "Strong" advertisement ==== He launched advertising in Iowa featuring his faith and the challenge to it from liberal and secular movements.<ref>{{cite news| url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/national/on-faith/gop-contender-rick-perry-stresses-faith-in-new-television-ad/2011/12/02/gIQARC43LO_story.html | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111203220615/http://www.washingtonpost.com/national/on-faith/gop-contender-rick-perry-stresses-faith-in-new-television-ad/2011/12/02/gIQARC43LO_story.html | url-status=dead | archive-date=December 3, 2011 | title=GOP contender Rick Perry stresses faith in new television ad|newspaper=The Washington Post| first=G. Jeffrey| last=Macdonald&}}</ref> His campaign aired a television ad in December 2011 titled "Strong", the second such ad with the first title "Faith" having been released the previous week.<ref>{{cite web |author=Burlij, Terence |date=7 December 2011 |title=Rick Perry's latest TV ad appeals to religious voters |url=https://www.pbs.org/newshour/rundown/2011/12/latest-perry-tv-ad-appeals-to-religious-voters.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111207235349/http://www.pbs.org/newshour/rundown/2011/12/latest-perry-tv-ad-appeals-to-religious-voters.html |archive-date=December 7, 2011 |accessdate=26 November 2012 |work=Newshour |publisher=PBS}}</ref>

In the ad, called "Strong", Perry reiterated his opposition to the repeal of "don't ask, don't tell", stating "something's wrong in this country when gays can openly serve in the military, but our children can't openly celebrate Christmas or pray in school", and promised to end Obama's "war on religion."<ref>{{cite web|url= https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0PAJNntoRgA |title=Rick Perry 2012: Strong |website=YouTube | date=December 6, 2011|access-date=December 8, 2011}}</ref> The ad garnered 400,000 "dislikes" after three days, becoming one of the most disliked videos on YouTube and inspiring several parodies.<ref>{{cite magazine|url=https://newsfeed.time.com/2011/12/09/rick-perrys-strong-campaign-ad-gets-the-web-angry-and-laughing/|title=Rick Perry's 'Strong' Campaign Ad Gets the Web Angry — and Laughing|date=December 9, 2011|magazine=TIME}}</ref> It also created internal dissent among his campaign staff.<ref>{{cite news| url=https://www.huffingtonpost.com/mobileweb/2011/12/08/rick-perry-anti-gay-iowa-ad-divides-top-staff_n_1136587.html | work=HuffPost| first=Sam | last=Stein | title=Top Aide To Rick Perry Calls Perry Ad 'Nuts{{'-}} | date=December 8, 2011}}</ref>

The "edgy and viscerally anti-gay" script was proposed by Nelson Warfield, Perry's campaign spokesman who had previously worked on the Bob Dole 1996 presidential campaign.<ref name="root">{{cite news |author=Root, Jay |date=24 September 2012 |title=The Oops Diaries: Gay Pollster's Role in Anti-Gay TV Ad Was Concealed |url=https://www.texastribune.org/2012/09/24/gay-pollsters-role-anti-gay-ad-was-concealed/ |accessdate=28 October 2025 |work=The Texas Tribune}}</ref> It was intended to be "big and dramatic" in order to "cut through the clutter" of the campaign.<ref name="root" /> On November 21, 2011, highly positive polls of Republican voters were reported internally in the campaign on the ad's language.<ref name="root" />

"Strong" raised controversy for addressing gay people in the military and religion in public schools, largely due to Perry's disapproval of the former.<ref name="gibson">{{cite magazine |author=Gibson, Megan |date=9 December 2011 |title=Rick Perry's 'Strong' Ad Racks Up Dislikes, Parodies |url=https://newsfeed.time.com/2011/12/09/rick-perrys-strong-campaign-ad-gets-the-web-angry-and-laughing/ |access-date=26 November 2012 |magazine=Time}}</ref> ''Time'' magazine noted that "While [Perry]'s not the first Republican nominee to promote religion as a campaign platform, he just might be the most provocative", as the ad "wastes no time in pushing two of the hottest political buttons in the county".<ref name="gibson" /> Perry was heckled during a campaign stop after the ad's release, accused of having an anti-gay bias.<ref>{{cite web |author=Burlij, Terence |date=7 December 2011 |title=Rick Perry's latest TV ad appeals to religious voters |url=https://www.pbs.org/newshour/rundown/2011/12/latest-perry-tv-ad-appeals-to-religious-voters.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111207235349/http://www.pbs.org/newshour/rundown/2011/12/latest-perry-tv-ad-appeals-to-religious-voters.html |archive-date=December 7, 2011 |accessdate=26 November 2012 |work=Newshour |publisher=PBS}}</ref> The Human Rights Campaign criticized the ad, with a director stating "We cannot be in the business of forcing people to choose between who they are, who they love, and their faith. Rick Perry's rhetoric presumes that you can't be Christian and supportive of LGBT people".<ref name="saenz">{{cite web |author=Saenz, Arlette |date=9 December 2011 |title=Rift in Perry camp over ad criticizing gays in the military |url=https://abcnews.go.com/blogs/politics/2011/12/rift-in-perry-camp-over-ad-criticizing-gays-in-military |accessdate=28 October 2025 |publisher=ABC News}}</ref>

==== Other efforts ==== Perry criticized the Obama administration's announcement on December 6, 2011, that the United States would initiate the use of foreign aid for promoting homosexual rights across the world.<ref>{{cite news| url=https://www.nytimes.com/2011/12/07/world/united-states-to-use-aid-to-promote-gay-rights-abroad.html | work=The New York Times | title=U.S. Backs Gay Rights Abroad, Obama and Clinton Say | date=December 6, 2011}}</ref> Perry spoke out against the measure, saying, "Just when you thought Barack Obama couldn't get any more out of touch with America's values, AP reports his administration wants to make foreign aid decisions based on gay rights. This administration's war on traditional American values must stop."<ref>{{cite news| url=https://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/12/06/rick-perry-gay-rights_n_1132537.html | work=HuffPost| first=Paige | last=Lavender | title=Rick Perry Decries Gay 'Lifestyle' After Obama, Hillary Clinton Call For Discrimination To End Worldwide | date=December 6, 2011}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://abcnews.go.com/blogs/politics/2011/12/rick-perry-says-human-rights-for-gays-not-in-americas-interests/ |title=Rick Perry Says Human Rights for Gays 'Not in America's Interests' - ABC News |publisher=Abcnews.go.com |date=December 6, 2011 |access-date=July 17, 2012}}</ref> During his speech, Perry called homosexuality a "deeply objectionable" lifestyle and firmly objected to any effort by the Obama administration to encroach on traditional family values.<ref>{{cite web|author=One-Time Gifts |url=http://www.hrc.org/press-releases/entry/rick-perry-lashes-out-against-efforts-to-protect-human-rights |title=Press Releases | Human Rights Campaign |date=December 6, 2011 |publisher=Hrc.org |access-date=July 17, 2012}}</ref>

In an apparent reference to the non-renewal of a grant for a Catholic organization, the U.S. Bishops Council on Migratory and Refugee Services, Perry said the administration's decision to reduce federal funding was an example of Obama's "war on religion".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ncregister.com/daily-news/obama-administration-defunds-bishops-migration-and-refugee-services-work/ |title=Obama Administration Defunds Bishops' Migration and Refugee Services Work | Daily News |publisher=NCRegister.com |access-date=February 10, 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/23888/us-house-questions-decision-to-cut-bishops-human-trafficking-funds |title=US House questions decision to cut bishops' human trafficking funds |publisher=Catholicnewsagency.com |date=December 1, 2011 |access-date=February 10, 2012}}</ref> ''Time'' magazine argued that Perry's criticisms against Obama were overblown, as Catholic organizations had received $1.5 billion in federal grant monies in the last two years of Obama's administration.<ref>{{Cite magazine|title=Why Rick Perry's New Ads Are Wrong on Religion–And Obama|url=https://swampland.time.com/2011/12/09/why-rick-perrys-new-ads-are-wrong-on-religion-and-obama/?iid=pf-main-mostpop2|date=December 9, 2011|first=Amy|last=Sullivan|author-link=Amy Sullivan|magazine=Time|access-date=December 11, 2011}}</ref>

Perry gave an interview to the ''Des Moines Register'' editorial board arguing against the Supreme Court decisions to end prayer in schools. He said the rulings were made by "eight unelected and, frankly, unaccountable judges" and called the Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor "Montemayor."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://caucuses.desmoinesregister.com/2011/12/10/rick-perry-campaign-clarifies-supreme-court-count/ |title=Rick Perry campaign clarifies context on Supreme Court count | Iowa Caucuses |publisher=Caucuses.desmoinesregister.com |date=December 10, 2011 |access-date=February 10, 2012}}</ref> The next day, he delivered a speech criticizing a $535 million bailout the Obama administration gave to the solar power industry, saying it was "lost to the country Solyndra", in spite of the fact that Solyndra is a company, not a nation.<ref name="solyndragaffe">{{cite news| url=http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2011/12/11/perry-continues-campaign-push-in-iowa-faces-hecklers/ | archive-url=https://archive.today/20130102220505/http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2011/12/11/perry-continues-campaign-push-in-iowa-faces-hecklers/ | url-status=dead | archive-date=January 2, 2013 | work=CNN| title=Perry continues campaign push in Iowa, faces hecklers – CNN Political Ticker | date=December 11, 2011}}</ref>

Perry reflected on his presidential campaign in December 2011 and attempted to downplay his gaffes, saying voters were not looking for "someone who's gonna be perfect in every way."<ref>{{cite news| url=https://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/12/11/rick-perry-gaffes-oops_n_1141837.html | work=HuffPost | first=Alana | last=Horowitz | title=Rick Perry Defends Gaffes: Voters 'Aren't Looking For A Robot' | date=December 11, 2011}}</ref> He spoke candidly about back pain which remained during his early months on the trail, saying he was "fatigued" after his surgery in July 2011,<ref>{{cite web|author=NBC's Carrie Dann |url=http://firstread.msnbc.msn.com/_news/2011/12/13/9423909-perry-says-fatigue-from-surgery-contributed-to-poor-debating |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120111014022/http://firstread.msnbc.msn.com/_news/2011/12/13/9423909-perry-says-fatigue-from-surgery-contributed-to-poor-debating |url-status=dead |archive-date=January 11, 2012 |title=First Read - Perry says fatigue from surgery contributed to poor debating |publisher=MSNBC |date=December 13, 2011 |access-date=February 10, 2012}}</ref> but was feeling healthier and noticed personal improvements in his energy levels.<ref name="backdebates">{{cite web|url=http://caucuses.desmoinesregister.com/2011/12/11/conversation-with-rick-perry-back-trouble-affected-campaign/ |title=Conversation with Rick Perry: Back trouble affected campaign | Iowa Caucuses |publisher=Caucuses.desmoinesregister.com |date=December 11, 2011 |access-date=February 10, 2012}}</ref> Vanity Fair printed a story ascribing Perry's demeanor during the early debates to his being "uncomfortable" as he twisted his torso and wore orthopedic shoes and a back brace.<ref>{{cite magazine|author=Bryan BurroughIllustration by André Carrilho |url=https://www.vanityfair.com/politics/2012/01/rick-perry-201201 |title=Rick Perry Has Three Strikes Against Him | Politics |magazine=Vanity Fair |date=August 1, 2011 |access-date=February 10, 2012}}</ref>

A Reuters article predicted that the early caucuses of South Carolina could be "Perry's last stand" to prove himself a viable candidate, but his strong campaign finances would enable him to sustain a campaign without increasing popular support.<ref>{{cite news| url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-usa-campaign-perry-idUSTRE7B72IV20111209 | work=Reuters| title=South Carolina could be Perry's last stand | date=December 9, 2011}}</ref> The National Journal featured a story on Dave Carney, Perry's campaign strategist since 1998, observing that he was astute and methodical in his operations, and that the campaign enjoyed good funds and organization.<ref name="dave carney">{{cite web |last=Khan |first=Naureen |url=http://www.nationaljournal.com/2012-presidential-campaign/can-the-wizard-behind-the-curtain-save-rick-perry--20111210?mrefid=election2012 |title=Can the 'Wizard Behind the Curtain' Save Rick Perry? - Naureen Khan |work=NationalJournal.com |access-date=February 10, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120216031333/http://www.nationaljournal.com/2012-presidential-campaign/can-the-wizard-behind-the-curtain-save-rick-perry--20111210?mrefid=election2012 |archive-date=February 16, 2012 |url-status=dead }}</ref> The article stated that the campaign's "biggest failing" was "the candidate and his ability to deliver a message."<ref name="dave carney"/>

=== Further setbacks and reassessment === The 11,911 signatures that the Perry campaign submitted to place his name on the Virginia primary ballot were judged to not have the required valid 10,000 signatures, as was the case also with the slightly fewer signatures submitted by Newt Gingrich's campaign. As a result, only Mitt Romney and Ron Paul qualified from among the field of Republican candidates.<ref>Maslin, Sarah. [http://thecaucus.blogs.nytimes.com/2011/12/23/rick-perry-fails-to-qualify-for-virginia-primary-ballot/ "Rick Perry Fails to Qualify for Virginia Primary Ballot"]. ''The New York Times''. December 23, 2011.</ref> Perry filed a federal lawsuit claiming the state's requirements for ballot access are unconstitutional.<ref>{{usurped|1=[https://web.archive.org/web/20111229210621/http://firstread.msnbc.msn.com/_news/2011/12/27/9750277-rick-perry-sues-virginia-to-get-on-primary-ballot "Rick Perry sues Virginia to get on primary ballot"]}} . NBC News. December 27, 2011.</ref>

After results from the Iowa caucuses on January 3, 2012, indicated that Perry would finish fifth with just over 10% of the vote, he stated that he would "return to Texas, assess the results of tonight's caucus, [and] determine whether there is a path forward for myself in this race."<ref>Michael A. Memoli, [https://www.latimes.com/news/politics/la-pn-rick-perry-suspend-campaign-20120103,0,7870108.story Rick Perry suspending campaign after disappointing finish in Iowa caucuses] ''Los Angeles Times'' January 3, 2012</ref> The next morning, his campaign director told staff that Perry would not come to a decision for another "day or two", but hours later, Perry told reporters that he would continue forward and would refocus his efforts on South Carolina.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.stltoday.com/news/national/perry-reassessing-bid-after-iowa-caucuses/article_58bcc622-0e70-5eab-983a-017aaf6cf418.html |title=Archived copy |access-date=February 20, 2020 |archive-date=August 25, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120825202445/https://www.stltoday.com/news/national/perry-reassessing-bid-after-iowa-caucuses/article_58bcc622-0e70-5eab-983a-017aaf6cf418.html |url-status=bot: unknown }}</ref> Perry was encouraged to continue forward by a friend of his, who reminded Perry that there were over 450,000 veterans in South Carolina, and Perry's stance on veteran's issues and social conservatism would be a natural fit there.<ref>{{cite web|last=Youngman |first=Sam |url=https://news.yahoo.com/why-perry-chose-keep-running-president-000032160.html |title=Why Perry chose to keep running for president - Yahoo! News |publisher=Yahoo! News |date=January 6, 2012 |access-date=February 10, 2012}}</ref> Mike Huckabee, who ran for president in 2008, said Perry's "reassessment" was a poor choice, saying, "In a campaign you never say, 'I might not make it.' I just think that was an incredibly bad blunder from a tactical standpoint."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.statesman.com/news/texas-politics/perry-faces-uphill-climb-in-presidential-bid-2086112.html |title=Perry faces uphill climb in presidential bid |publisher=Statesman.com |date=August 24, 2011 |access-date=February 10, 2012}}</ref>

=== South Carolina and suspension of campaign === Perry chose to write off New Hampshire and did not invest much time or money in the state, instead going to South Carolina. During a debate, he was critical of Obama's withdrawal from Iraq, and said he would send troops back into Iraq. He said it was a mistake to withdraw so early, and warned that the Iranians would come in and invade "literally with the speed of light".<ref name="lat120107">{{cite news |first=Kim |last=Geiger |work=Los Angeles Times |title=Rick Perry: 'I would send troops back into Iraq' |url=https://www.latimes.com/news/politics/la-pn-rick-perry-i-would-send-troops-back-into-iraq-20120107,0,379003.story |date=January 7, 2012 |access-date=January 19, 2012}}</ref>

The government of Turkey responded to Perry's allegation that it was run by Islamic terrorists by stating that Perry's low rankings in the polls and primaries showed that his views were not widely shared.<ref name="wp120117">{{cite news |last=Sonmez |first=Felicia |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/election-2012/post/rick-perry-debate-remarks-condemned-by-turkish-foreign-ministry/2012/01/17/gIQAo7Zz5P_blog.html |title=Rick Perry debate remarks condemned by Turkish Foreign Ministry |newspaper=The Washington Post|date=January 17, 2012 |access-date=January 17, 2012}}</ref> Anders Fogh Rasmussen, the Secretary General of NATO, stated: "I strongly disagree with these statements. And to be very brief I have noted that the Turkish foreign ministry said that Perry's comments were baseless and inappropriate."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nato.int/cps/en/SID-5D8C28F1-AD467F93/natolive/opinions_83444.htm?selectedLocale=en |title=NATO - Opinion: Joint press point with NATO Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen and the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkey, Ahmet Davutoglu, 18-Jan.-2012 |publisher=Nato.int |date=January 18, 2012 |access-date=February 10, 2012}}</ref>

On January, 19 two days before the South Carolina primary, Perry suspended his campaign and endorsed Newt Gingrich for president.<ref name="nyt120119a"/> Perry endorsed Mitt Romney after Gingrich suspended his campaign in late April.<ref>{{cite web|last=Davis|first=Laura E.|title=Rick Perry Endorses Mitt Romney|url=https://abcnews.go.com/Politics/OTUS/rick-perry-endorses-mitt-romney/story?id=16216326#.T-oRKbVST1k|work=ABC News|access-date=June 26, 2012|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120720050026/https://abcnews.go.com/Politics/OTUS/rick-perry-endorses-mitt-romney/story?id=16216326#.T-oRKbVST1k|archive-date=July 20, 2012}}</ref>

==Endorsements==   {{hidden begin|titlestyle=background:#cff|title=List of Rick Perry endorsements|contentstyle=border:solid 1px silver; padding:8px; background:white;}}

Perry received endorsements from:

'''U.S. Senators''' * Jim Inhofe, Oklahoma<ref>{{cite news |title=Perry Already Picking Up Endorsements |url=http://nation.foxnews.com/rick-perry/2011/08/24/perry-already-picking-endorsements |access-date=August 25, 2011 |newspaper=Tulsa World |date=August 24, 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110825004629/http://nation.foxnews.com/rick-perry/2011/08/24/perry-already-picking-endorsements |archive-date=August 25, 2011 |url-status=dead }}</ref>

'''U.S. Representatives''' *John Carter of Texas<ref name="thehill2">{{cite news |url=https://thehill.com/homenews/campaign/97556-2012-gop-lawmaker-endorsements-for-president/ |title=2012 GOP Lawmaker Endorsements for President |newspaper=The Hill |date=July 20, 2011 |access-date=January 11, 2012}}</ref> *Mike Coffman of Colorado<ref>{{cite news |title=Gov. Perry Announces Colorado Leadership Team for Presidential Campaign |url=http://www.rickperry.org/news/gov-perry-announces-colorado-leadership-team-for-presidential-campaign/ |access-date=October 19, 2011 |date=October 17, 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111020053955/http://www.rickperry.org/news/gov-perry-announces-colorado-leadership-team-for-presidential-campaign/ |archive-date=October 20, 2011 |url-status=dead }}</ref> *Mike Conaway of Texas<ref name="thehill2"/> *John Culberson of Texas<ref name="thehill2"/> *Sam Graves of Missouri<ref>{{cite news |title=Sam Graves gives Rick Perry first endorsement from Missouri |url=https://www.stltoday.com/news/local/govt-and-politics/political-fix/article_b743011a-c817-11e0-b74a-001a4bcf6878.html |access-date=August 31, 2011 |newspaper=St. Louis Post-Dispatch |date=August 16, 2011}}</ref> *Jeb Hensarling of Texas<ref>{{cite news |title=Jeb Hensarling endorses Rick Perry for President |url=http://miamiherald.typepad.com/nakedpolitics/2011/08/house-speaker-dean-cannon-endorses-rick-perry-for-president.html |access-date=August 31, 2011 |newspaper=Miami Herald |date=August 24, 2011}}</ref> *Mike McCaul of Texas<ref name="thehill2"/> *Candice Miller of Michigan<ref>{{cite news |title=Candice Miller endorsed Governor Rick Perry in his campaign for President |url=http://candice-miller.com/2011/09/09/candice-miller-endorsed-governor-rick-perry-in-his-campaign-for-president/ |access-date=September 15, 2011 |date=September 9, 2011}}</ref> *Mick Mulvaney of South Carolina<ref>{{cite news |title=U.S. Rep. Mulvaney Endorses Texas Gov. Rick Perry for President |url=http://www.rickperry.org/news/u-s-rep-mulvaney-endorses-texas-gov-rick-perry-for-president/ |access-date=September 5, 2011 |date=September 5, 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120105150512/http://www.rickperry.org/news/u-s-rep-mulvaney-endorses-texas-gov-rick-perry-for-president/ |archive-date=January 5, 2012 |url-status=dead }}</ref> *Steve Scalise of Louisiana<ref name="louisiana1">{{cite news |title=Louisiana Officials Strain and Scalise Endorse Texas Gov. Rick Perry for President |url=http://www.thecypresstimes.com/article/News/National_News/LOUISIANA_OFFICIALS_STRAIN_AND_SCALISE_ENDORSE_TEXAS_GOV_RICK_PERRY_FOR_PRESIDENT/50038 |access-date=September 2, 2011 |newspaper=The Cypress Times |date=September 1, 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120125031350/http://www.thecypresstimes.com/article/News/National_News/LOUISIANA_OFFICIALS_STRAIN_AND_SCALISE_ENDORSE_TEXAS_GOV_RICK_PERRY_FOR_PRESIDENT/50038 |archive-date=January 25, 2012 }}</ref>

'''Governors and state constitutional officers''' * Governor Bobby Jindal of Louisiana<ref>{{cite news |author=Preston, Mark |url=http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2011/09/12/jindal-to-endorse-perry/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110913134413/http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2011/09/12/jindal-to-endorse-perry/ |url-status=dead |archive-date=September 13, 2011 |title=Jindal to endorse Perry |work=Political Ticker |publisher=CNN|date=September 12, 2011 |access-date=September 13, 2011}}</ref> * Governor Brian Sandoval of Nevada<ref>{{cite web |author=Halper, Daniel |url=http://www.weeklystandard.com/blogs/sandoval-endorses-perry_593513.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111219023209/http://www.weeklystandard.com/blogs/sandoval-endorses-perry_593513.html |url-status=dead |archive-date=December 19, 2011 |title=Sandoval Endorses Perry |work=The Weekly Standard |date=September 13, 2011 |access-date=September 13, 2011}}</ref> * Governor Sam Brownback of Kansas<ref>{{cite news |title=Kansas conservative governor Brownback endorses Perry |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-campaign-perry-endorsement-idUSTRE78L55420110922 |access-date=September 23, 2011 |date=September 22, 2011 |work=Reuters}}</ref> * Commissioner Michael G. Strain of the Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry<ref name="louisiana1"/>

'''State legislators''' :'''California''' * Assemblyman Daniel Logue<ref>{{cite news |title = Assemblyman Logue says Rick Perry has 'Ronald Reagan mystique' |url = http://www.willows-journal.com/articles/perry-109105-marysville-entry-texas.html |newspaper = Willows Journal |date = August 13, 2011 |access-date = January 11, 2012 |url-status = dead |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120406214542/http://www.willows-journal.com/articles/perry-109105-marysville-entry-texas.html |archive-date = April 6, 2012 }}</ref>

:'''Mississippi''' * Henry Barbour, RNC National Committeeman and nephew of Mississippi Governor Haley Barbour.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://leadercall.com/opinion/x1331364420/Perry-Romney-battle-in-Mississippi |title=Perry, Romney battle in Mississippi |publisher=Leader Call |author=Brian Perry |date=December 1, 2011 |access-date=January 11, 2012}}{{dead link|date=February 2025|bot=medic}}{{cbignore|bot=medic}}</ref>

:'''Florida''' * Don Gaetz, state senator<ref>{{cite news |title=Gaetz endorses Perry for president |url=http://blogs.orlandosentinel.com/news_politics/2011/08/gaetz-endorses-perry-for-president.html |access-date=September 5, 2011 |newspaper=Orlando Sentinel |date=August 30, 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110913022206/http://blogs.orlandosentinel.com/news_politics/2011/08/gaetz-endorses-perry-for-president.html |archive-date=September 13, 2011 }}</ref> * Jeff Brandes, state representative<ref name="RPfl"/> * Dean Cannon, Speaker of the Florida House of Representatives<ref>{{cite news|title=House Speaker Dean Cannon endorses Rick Perry for president|url=http://trailblazersblog.dallasnews.com/archives/2011/08/jeb-hensarling-endorses-rick-p.html|access-date=August 31, 2011|newspaper=The Dallas Morning News|date=August 25, 2011|archive-date=March 31, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120331221325/http://trailblazersblog.dallasnews.com/archives/2011/08/jeb-hensarling-endorses-rick-p.html|url-status=dead}}</ref> * Matt Gaetz, state representative<ref name="RPfl"> {{cite news |title=Another big Florida endorsement for Rick Perry? |url=http://www.tampabay.com/blogs/the-buzz-florida-politics/content/another-big-florida-endorsement-rick-perry |author=Janet Zink |newspaper=Tampa Bay Times |date=August 19, 2011 |access-date=January 11, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110914032953/http://www.tampabay.com/blogs/the-buzz-florida-politics/content/another-big-florida-endorsement-rick-perry |archive-date=September 14, 2011 |url-status=dead

}} </ref> * Carlos Lopez-Cantera, State Representative and House Majority Leader<ref>{{cite news |title=Florida House Majority Leader Endorses Gov. Rick Perry For President |url=http://www.rickperry.org/news/florida-house-majority-leader-endorses-gov-rick-perry-for-president/ |access-date=September 23, 2011 |date=September 22, 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110925062950/http://www.rickperry.org/news/florida-house-majority-leader-endorses-gov-rick-perry-for-president/ |archive-date=September 25, 2011 }}</ref>

:'''South Carolina''' * Harvey Peeler, State Senator and State Senate Majority Leader<ref name="the state">{{cite news |title=Wilkins, Peeler endorse Perry |url=http://www.thestate.com/2011/08/21/1941239/wilkins-peeler-endorse-perry.html |access-date=September 5, 2011 |newspaper=The State |date=August 21, 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110910040658/http://www.thestate.com/2011/08/21/1941239/wilkins-peeler-endorse-perry.html |archive-date=September 10, 2011 }}</ref> * David Wilkins, former Speaker of the South Carolina House of Representatives and former Ambassador to Canada<ref name="the state"/>

'''Other''' * Ted Cruz, former Solicitor General of Texas (2003–2008){{citation needed|date=October 2019}} * Kinky Friedman, former Independent candidate for Governor of Texas in 2006, country singer, and mystery author.<ref>{{cite news |title=Kinky for Perry |url=http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2011/08/24/kinky-friedman-rick-perry-s-got-my-vote.html |access-date=September 5, 2011 |newspaper=The Daily Beast |date=August 24, 2011}}</ref> * David Wilkins, former Speaker of the South Carolina House of Representatives and former Ambassador to Canada<ref name="the state"/> * Joe Arpaio, Sheriff of Maricopa County, Arizona <ref name="CBSArpaioEndorse"/> * James R. Leininger, entrepreneur and philanthropist<ref>{{cite news |title=Religious Right Millionaire Backed Rick Perry's Career, Paved Texas Conservative Politics With Money |url=https://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/08/27/religious-right-millionaire-rick-perry_n_938547.html |newspaper=HuffPost |date=August 27, 2011 |access-date=January 11, 2012 |first=Paul |last=Blumenthal}}</ref> * Dean Cain, actor known for playing Clark Kent/Superman in the TV Series ''Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman''.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/style/gaga-for-obama-and-other-celebrity-endorsements/2011/09/27/gIQADCC61K_gallery.html#photo=1 |title=Gaga for Obama and other celebrity endorsements |newspaper=The Washington Post |author=Michael Buckner |date=September 27, 2011 |access-date=January 11, 2012}}</ref> * Van B. Poole, former chairman of the Florida Republican Party from 1989 to 1993.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.rttnews.com/Content/PoliticalNews.aspx?Node=B1&Id=1719787 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110924015558/http://www.rttnews.com/Content/PoliticalNews.aspx?Node=B1&Id=1719787 |url-status=dead |archive-date=September 24, 2011 |access-date=September 28, 2011 |title = Global Politics, Political News}}</ref> * Marcus Luttrell, Navy Seal <ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ssbSECuuN3s|title=Securing the American Dream (Marcus' Story)|website=youtube.com |date=November 22, 2011 }}</ref> * Steve Forbes, businessman, CEO of Forbes, Inc., and 2000 Republican presidential contender.<ref>{{cite web|author=RPerry2012 |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Srw74pRclqU |title=Steve Forbes Endorses Rick Perry and His Plan to Cut, Balance, and Grow |publisher=YouTube |date=November 16, 2011 |access-date=July 17, 2012}}</ref> * Kurt Wuelper, New Hampshire Right to Life President.<ref>{{cite magazine |url=http://campaign2012.washingtonexaminer.com/blogs/beltway-confidential/nh-right-life-pres-endorses-perry-hits-romney/240076 |title=NH Right to Life pres endorses Perry, hits Romney |magazine=Washington Examiner |author=Joel Gehrke |date=December 6, 2011 |access-date=January 11, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111207150743/http://campaign2012.washingtonexaminer.com/blogs/beltway-confidential/nh-right-life-pres-endorses-perry-hits-romney/240076 |archive-date=December 7, 2011 |url-status=dead }}</ref> {{hidden end}}

==References== {{reflist|30em|refs=  }}

==External links== * {{usurped|1=[https://web.archive.org/web/20120117182729/http://www.rickperry.org/ Rick Perry for President]}} archived official campaign site *{{Twitter|name=Rick Perry}} *[http://www.texastribune.org/texas-people/rick-perry/ Rick Perry] collected news and commentary at ''The Texas Tribune'' * [http://combatblog.net/an-unfair-rant-about-rick-perry-before-we-all-forget-him/] showing the hate that stopped Perry from his ultimate goal. * {{CongLinks | congbio= | votesmart=15373 | fec=P20003281 | congress= }}

Perry, Rick Category:Rick Perry

Rick Perry 2012 presidential campaign

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