Texas Gov. Rick Perry Won’t Rule Out 2012 Run

Texas Governor Rick Perry still hasn’t entirely ruled out a 2012 presidential run based on comments he made to reporters. Perry has been constantly asked, however, typically responds saying he will not be distracted by 2012 talk, instead choosing to focus on the issues in his state.

Report from the Texas Tribune:

Texas Gov. Rick Perry just can’t seem to shut the door on a 2012 presidential run.

With conservatives aching for more choices in the approaching 2012 Republican primary, Perry declined Tuesday to rule out a White House bid during a press conference about a new anti-abortion measure. Also Tuesday, his top strategist told the Tribune that the governor is, naturally, “thinking about it” given the flattering comments made recently by some in the GOP, although he “doesn’t see any change in his direction.”

Perry’s remarks Tuesday were similar to a statement the governor gave to reporters last week — namely, that he won’t get “distracted” by talk of a presidential campaign. Perry is, after all, in the throes of the 2011 legislative session, where weighty matters like sweeping budget cuts and immigration restrictions are being considered.

But Perry’s non-denial denial is a little more significant this time because he was asked specifically if he would “rule out” running for president. Here is how the longest serving governor in America answered that question:

“I’ve got my focus on where it’s appropriately supposed to be, and that’s this legislative session,” Perry said. “I’ve said multiple times I’m not going to get distracted from my work at hand, and I’m not going to get distracted today, either.”

As polls continue showing the race with soft support for the so-called top candidates, I am finding it more and more plausible that Perry could toss his hat in the ring. At this point it seems like he’d have nothing to lose. Either he’d gain big support and find some firm ground or he wouldn’t. If the case is the latter, he can run this as long as needed to Iowa and bow out. However, if Perry could bring his Texas charm to the stage, maybe he’d have a shot given the desire by many GOP voters to see some new faces in the running.