texas

Former Governor Rick Perry Speaks in Dallas

Former Texas Gov. Rick Perry spoke Tuesday at a World Affairs Council of Dallas Fort Worth luncheon.

Perry, who ran an unsuccessful presidential campaign in 2012, had the group laughing with his opening remarks, because he is likely to announce he is running for president again.

"I will make an announcement," said Perry. "This is my wife's birthday."

Perry has been on the sidelines so far as other candidates are getting rolling. But after appearances in several early primary states, he has been fairly quiet in recent weeks.

"I think he wants to be known as a serious political candidate. I think he wants to be as prepared as possible before he jumps out there," said Dallas Morning News Political Expert Gromer Jeffers.

Perry's speech Tuesday didn’t mention any Republican candidates, but he took several shots at President Barack Obama, saying a change in leadership is necessary.

"The next president of the United States is going to have a major task on their hands when it comes to foreign policy. We have to assure our allies we are going to be there for them," said Perry.

Perry has said he will make an announcement about future plans in late May or June.

U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, is in, and so is U.S. Sen. Rand Paul, R-Kentucky, who grew up in Texas.

Former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush, who has Texas ties, may run as well.

"I don't think he wants to step on his announcement, but this is going to be a crowded field, and he has to get out there soon," added Jeffers.

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