Since kicking off his presidential bid earlier in the month, Gov. Rick Perry of Texas has soared to the top of the polls, pushing aside former Gov. Mitt Romney of Massachusetts who had been the frontrunner in the race. On Tuesday Perry turned his focus toward the Sunshine State as he earned the endorsement of one of the most influential Republicans in Tallahassee -- incoming Senate President Don Gaetz, R-Niceville.
While Gaetz had indicated that he would back Perry earlier in the month, on Tuesday he formally endorsed the Texas governor for the Republican presidential nomination.
"No one is better prepared to get America back on track than Gov. Rick Perry," said Gaetz who has represented parts of Bay, Escambia, Okaloosa, Santa Rosa and Walton counties since first being elected in 2006. "Gov. Perry has proven his effectiveness in establishing a robust environment for job creation. Since just June of 2009, Texas has created approximately 40 percent of the net new jobs in America while President Obamas policies have led to historic unemployment and deepening economic despair for families and small businesses.
"For the first time in my life, I am frightened for the future of my country, Gaetz continued. Ultra-liberal, debt-piling mandates like Obamacare dictated from Washington wont bring prosperity to our communities and are driving our country toward decline and weakness. By contrast, Gov. Perry has created a model for success based on common sense and balanced budgets.
Gaetz pointed to the Sunshine States role in presidential politics--and insisted that Perry could carry the ultimate swing state.
With 29 electoral votes, Florida could well be the turning point state in presidential politics this year. President Obama knows he has to win Florida or lose the election, said Gaetz. Rick Perry has the best chance among Republicans to carry Florida and win the presidency.
"Senator Gaetz is a leader in Floridas business community and is one of the states most respected public servants. He understands firsthand the significance of job creation and sensible economic policies to get America working again, said Perry. I am honored to have his support and look forward to working closely with him as we bring our campaign for Americas future to Florida.
Besides the support of Gaetz, the Perry camp also trumpeted the endorsement of another prominent conservative this week -- U.S. Sen. James Inhofe, R-OK. Inhofe was raked among the top conservatives in Congress by Heritage Action, a group affiliated with the iconic conservative organization the Heritage Foundation, in a report released last week.
Reach Kevin Derby at kderby@sunshinestatenews.com or at (850) 727-0859
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