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Rick Perry's Issue Positions (Political Courage Test)

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Official Position: Candidate addressed this issue directly by taking the Political Courage Test.
Inferred Position: Candidate refused to address this issue, but Vote Smart inferred this issue based on the candidate's public record, including statements, voting record, and special interest group endorsements.
Unknown Position: Candidate refused to address this issue, or we could not infer an answer for this candidate despite exhaustive research of their public record.
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Other or Expanded Principles & Legislative Priorities are entered exactly as candidates submit them. Vote Smart does not edit for misspelled words, punctuation or grammar.

Rick Perry refused to tell citizens where he stands on any of the issues addressed in the 2012 Political Courage Test, despite repeated requests from Vote Smart, national media, and prominent political leaders.

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Issue Positions

For Presidential and Congressional candidates who refuse to provide voters with their positions, Vote Smart has researched their public records to determine their likely responses. These issue positions are from 2012.

  • Rick Perry signed the Susan B. Anthony List: Pro-life Leadership Presidential Pledge. 23 August 2011. (www.sba-list.org)
  • "Gov. Perry is the most pro-life governor Texas has ever had and has implemented a number of significant reforms to protect life and strengthen Texas families across our state." (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. Gov. Perry Shares Staunch Commitment to Conservative Values At Thanksgiving Family Forum. 19 November 2011. “I am a faithful, fiscal and social conservative of conviction, not of convenience," said Gov. Perry. "As Governor of the State of Texas, I have signed more pro-life legislation than any governor in my state's history and championed and signed the Texas Defense of Marriage Act. Traditional family values are important to me, to the people of Iowa and to citizens and future of our nation. America needs to reenergize limited government, entrepreneurship and the traditional values that helped us become the greatest, most prosperous nation in history.” (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. Statement by Gov. Rick Perry on Injunction of Sonogram Law. 30 August 2011. “Every life lost to abortion is a tragedy and today's ruling is a great disappointment to all Texans who stand in defense of life. This important sonogram legislation ensures that every Texas woman seeking an abortion has all the facts about the life she is carrying, and understands the devastating impact of such a life-changing decision. I have full confidence in Attorney General Abbott's efforts to appeal this decision as he defends the laws enacted by the Texas Legislature." (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. CNN "CNN-Tea Party Republican Debate" – Transcript. 12 September 2011. “I passed parental notification piece of legislation. I've been the most pro-life governor in the state of Texas.” (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. Issue Position: Pro-life. 4 August 2011. "Gov. Perry has worked diligently to make Texas safer for the unborn by signing both parental notification and parental consent laws to ensure parents are involved in their minor daughters' major decisions. He signed a ban making certain that tax dollars are not used to support abortion facilities and helped implement the strictest third trimester abortion ban in the nation." (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. Gov. Rick Perry's Remarks During a United For Life Event in Los Angeles. 12 June 2011. "'Nearly 40 years have passed since the tragedy of Roe v. Wade was decided by the U.S. Supreme Court. Since then, more than 50 million children have lost their chance at life, the tragic legacy of judicial activism and the starkest reminder that our culture and our country remain at peril." (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. Gov. Perry Adds Sonogram Requirement to Emergency Items for Legislative Session. 22 January 2011. "Even in Texas, where the unborn are more protected than most places, more than 81,000 unborn children are lost to abortion each year. That's a staggering statistic and it's simply unacceptable. The beginning of this legislative session represents hope; hope that we can continue our work to improve our laws and save lives. Today I'm pleased to announce I'm designating the Sonogram Bill as an emergency item for the 82nd Legislature." (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. Gov. Perry Announces New Housing4TexasHeroes Program. 29 August 2011. “The men and women of the United States Military are the greatest ambassadors of freedom this nation has ever sent abroad. That's why, when we send them to war, we must give them every weapon and every resource to help them succeed. And when those heroes come home, many physically scarred, others emotionally, we must devote whatever resources are needed to help them heal and live fulfilling lives." (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. Gov. Rick Perry Clear Winner of CBS Debate; Highlights Commitment to Unapologetic Leadership At Home and Abroad. 12 November 2011. "A strong defense and a strong economy go hand in hand you can't have one without the other. We must have both if we are to remain free. I will work to restore confidence in America both at home and abroad, by implementing policies that will reinvigorate our economy while upholding consistent foreign policy so our allies know where we stand." (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. Issue Position: National Security. 24 August 2011. “Rick Perry believes that our nation is most secure when we have the strongest economy in the world. His first priority will be to get America's economic engine running at full speed to restore our global economic leadership, and to ensure America has the resources needed to maintain a strong, modern defense.” (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. Gov. Perry: Fiscal Responsibility Will Guide Texas through Budget Process. 12 Janurary 2011. "Lt. Governor Dewhurst, Speaker Straus and I just wrapped up the first of our weekly breakfast meetings and I can tell you that we believe we're already on track to fulfill the expectations of our citizens a balanced budget with no tax increase." (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. Fox News "Fox News Sunday with Chris Wallace" – Transcript. 11 December 2011. “We are interested in creating a climate where people who have money can risk their capital. And it's not rich people. It's about small mom and pop businesses who are afraid because of Obamacare, afraid because of over-regulation, afraid because of over- taxation that come straight out of Washington, D.C., that they can't risk their capital. They can't create jobs that in turn will create the wealth. That's what we need to be focused. Not temporary tax cuts that are going to temporarily stimulate. We already had some of that stimulation out of Washington, D.C. -- trillions of dollars. We found out $7.7 trillion was secretly moved from the Treasury to these Wall Street financers. That's what Americans are upset about, Chris.” (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. Iowa Republican Debate. 11 August 2011. "BAIER: Well, I'm going to ask a question to everyone here on the stage. Say you had a deal, a real spending cuts deal, 10 to one, as -- as Byron said, spending cuts to tax increases. […] Can you raise your hand if you feel so strongly about not raising taxes, you'd walk away on the 10 to one deal? […] OK. Just making sure everyone at home and everyone here knows that they all raised their hands. They’re all saying that they feel so strongly about not raising taxes that a 10 to one deal, they would walk away from. Confirming that." (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. San Antonio Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Helps Promote, Power South Texas Economy. 27 July 2010. "These same employers that are creating jobs for Texans are also facing a big tax increase if the Obama administration allows the Bush tax credits to expire. This is the key reason that I have called for a balanced budget amendment to the U.S. Constitution, so that Washington would have to exercise the same fiscal restrain that sensible businesses and families have long employed." (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. Gov. Rick Perry Champions Jobs, Fiscal Responsibility, Conservative Agenda. 12 September 2011. "As president I will work to rein in federal spending, reduce taxes, bring predictability to our regulatory framework and reduce frivolous lawsuits, the conservative platform I used to help make Texas the top jobs-producing state. By standing strong against tax increases, overreaching regulations and the change-resistant federal bureaucracy, I know we can get America working again." (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. Gov. Perry Calls for Expanded Lawsuit Reform in Texas. 13 January 2011. "The voters want us to balance the budget without raising taxes as we make government even leaner and more efficient." (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. Perry Calls Dropping Medicaid 'A Good Idea'. 11 November 2010. “I recommend we have a broad discussion about all of the ways states could better deliver healthcare services to their citizens. If opting out of Medicaid is one of them, which I think it is probably a good idea, but we need to look at all the options.” (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. Texas Observer: Medicaid Idea Gets Spiked. 12 March 2010. “Texas, the states and the federal government would be much better served by increasing flexibility and innovation in Medicaid, even block granting funds to the states, so we can tailor Medicaid dollars to best serve the needs of Texas patients, families and taxpayers. I have discussed these issues with other governors and policy experts, and will be working on ways to improve the utilization of Medicaid dollars in Texas.” (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. FOX News "FOX News Sunday" – Transcript. 21 November 2010. “WALLACE: So I want to make sure I understand. Are you basically saying that on things like Medicare, Medicaid, that those programs should be ended and federal money should just go to the states? PERRY: What I'm saying is that between Social Security, Medicaid and Medicare, there's $106 trillion of unfunded liabilities and not one dime saved to pay for them. My children who are in their 20s know that Social Security is a Ponzi scheme. Medicaid -- we think we can save substantial dollars for the federal government and for the states if they'll allow us to implement that program. For instance, it's $30 billion a year between the state and the federal government for one year of Medicaid in the state of Texas. We think we can cut that substantially, help our colleagues in Washington, D.C. balance the budget up there, and substantially help with us our budgetary issues here if they'll just trust the states to do what the states that -- our founding fathers actually foresaw was letting the states being the laboratories of innovation.” (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. Letter to President Obama, Speaker Boehner, Senator Reid, Senator McConnell, Representative Pelosi and Secretary Sebelius. 7 January 2011. “Health and education are the primary cost drivers for most state budgets. Medicaid enrollment is up. Revenues are down. States are unable to afford the current Medicaid program, yet our hands are tied by the MOE requirements included in ARRA and PPACA. The effect of the federal requirements is unconscionable; the federal requirements force Governors to cut other critical state programs, such as education, in order to fund a one-size-fits-all approach to Medicaid. Again, we ask you to lift the MOE requirements so that states may make difficult budget decisions in ways that reflect the needs of their residents.” (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. Wall Street Journal - Some States Weigh Unthinkable Option: Ending Medicaid. 22 November 2010. "We feel very comfortable that we could come up with a more equitable, a more efficient, and obviously a more cost-effective way to deliver health care." (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. FOX News "FOX News Sunday" – Transcript. 21 November 2010. “WALLACE: So I want to make sure I understand. Are you basically saying that on things like Medicare, Medicaid, that those programs should be ended and federal money should just go to the states? PERRY: What I'm saying is that between Social Security, Medicaid and Medicare, there's $106 trillion of unfunded liabilities and not one dime saved to pay for them. My children who are in their 20s know that Social Security is a Ponzi scheme. Medicaid -- we think we can save substantial dollars for the federal government and for the states if they'll allow us to implement that program. For instance, it's $30 billion a year between the state and the federal government for one year of Medicaid in the state of Texas. We think we can cut that substantially, help our colleagues in Washington, D.C. balance the budget up there, and substantially help with us our budgetary issues here if they'll just trust the states to do what the states that -- our founding fathers actually foresaw was letting the states being the laboratories of innovation.” (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. CNN "CNN-Tea Party Republican Debate" – Transcript. 12 September 2011. “BLITZER: '[..] Governor Perry, it was President Bush who pushed for prescription drug benefits for senior, not President Obama. It was President Bush who pushed for prescription drug benefits for seniors. The question to you: If you were president -- it's not a difficult question -- would you vote to eliminate, to repeal those prescription drug benefits for seniors under Medicare?' PERRY: 'No. It's a $17 trillion hole that we have in our budget we've got to deal with. And I think that's the issue of, how do you find the savings and still deliver the services? For instance, in the state of Texas, we combined a substantial amount of our health and human services from 10 down to five agencies. We put an Office of Inspector General into place, and we saved over $5.3 billion, Newt, just by finding the waste and the fraud in Texas state government. I'm thinking there might be more waste and fraud in the federal government than even there is in the Texas government.' (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. Gov. Perry's Remarks at the ALEC 2010 States and Nation Policy Summit. 3 December 2010. "[T]he new leaders in Washington and those who profess to be conservative, should vote to handcuff the big spenders by simplifying our tax system once and for all and amending the Constitution to restrict federal spending. A balanced budget amendment like the one put together by the team here at ALEC would be the perfect tool for that, and it would protect future generations for new administrations that run rampant upon taking office as it keeps America moving forward with liberty." (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. Text of Gov. Rick Perry's Presidential Announcement Remarks. 13 August 2011. “We need balanced budgets. We need lower taxes. We need less regulation. And we need civil justice reform -- those same four principles. Our country's most urgent need is to revitalize our economy, stop the generational theft that is going on with this record debt.” (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. Republican Debate at the Reagan Presidential Library. 7 September 2011. “When you get a balanced budget amendment in Washington, D.C., you will finally start getting the snake's head cut off. I mean, the fact of the matter is, until you get a balanced budget amendment -- I don't care whether Democrats or Republicans are going to be in control in Washington, D.C. -- balanced budget amendment, and then the American people can go to sleep at night with a little more comfort that they're going to wake up and not be broke in the morning.” (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. Fox News 'Fox News Sunday' - Transcript. 21 November 2010. "We got a constitutional amendment to our Texas constitution, something that the federal government should have in place as well. But we will prioritize what's important -- keeping the economy, obviously our taxes, our regulatory climate, legal system, et cetera. We're considering the concept of loser pays here to make our legal system even better for the business men and women in the state of Texas. But we'll prioritize what's important -- public safety in our -- in our education system -- and then we'll reduce spending, just like we did in 2003.” (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. San Antonio Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Helps Promote, Power South Texas Economy. 27 July 2010. " […] I have called for a balanced budget amendment to the U.S. Constitution, so that Washington would have to exercise the same fiscal restrain that sensible businesses and families have long employed." (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. Statement by Gov. Perry on Passage of House Concurrent Resolution 18. 19 May 2011. "A constitutional limit on Washington's excessive spending and borrowing is crucial to getting our country back on track to economic stability and prosperity. Now more than ever, we need the federal government to live within its means, using the same fiscal discipline that families and employers do every day. I commend the Texas Senate for passing HCR 18, and applaud Rep. Creighton and Sen. Shapiro for their leadership on this measure, which is an important step forward in the effort to bring greater fiscal responsibility to our government in Washington." (votesmart.org)
  • "In Texas, we believe in freedom, personal responsibility, and the God-given right to defend yourself and your family. We never lose faith in our Founding Fathers' wisdom to include the Second Amendment to the Constitution among the Bill of Rights" (votesmart.org)
  • "In his remarks, the governor noted that to truly protect taxpayers, a Balanced Budget Amendment to the U.S. Constitution is absolutely necessary. He pledged to reduce spending across several agencies including the Department of Education, Department of Energy and Environmental Protection Agency, while returning greater regulatory control of those responsibilities to the states. Gov. Perry's plan to balance the budget will cut federal spending to 18 percent of GDP from the current rate of about 23 percent and will reduce non-defense discretionary spending by $100 billion in the first year. It will also institute other fiscal reforms, including elimination of baseline budgeting, an end to non-emergency spending in emergency bills, and the elimination of earmarks." (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. Gov. Perry: Fiscal Responsibility is Essential for Prosperity and Job Creation. 10 August 2011. “The fact is government doesn't create jobs, otherwise the last two and a half years of stimulus would have worked. […] The federal government has tried to spend our way out of this economic spiral, which has only deepened the crisis...while it deepens our debt.” (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. Fox News “Hannity” - Transcript. 22 September 2011. “We tried this Keynesian theory a couple of times now under this administration and it has failed miserably both times. And it won't ever work. You cannot spend your way to prosperity. It has never worked and it never will.” (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. Text of Gov. Perry's Remarks at the 2011 Inauguration Ceremony. 18 January 2011. "Here at home, we've seen catastrophic events in the marketplace that have unleashed an economic recession unlike anything we've experienced in 70 years. The failure of major financial institutions led to tighter credit, massive foreclosures, and staggering layoffs. Risky practices in the private sector were compounded by poor spending decisions in the public sector. With bloated stimulus spending, record debt and massive entitlement programs, Washington has America on a collision course with bankruptcy. While Texas has fared better than most states, we have not gone untouched by this global recession, and we cannot forget those Texans who are dealing with the fear and uncertainty of joblessness." (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. Gov. Perry's Remarks at the ALEC 2010 States and Nation Policy Summit. 3 December 2010. "As leaders at the state level stand boldly on our constitutional powers, and push back with everything from court cases to protect them to the refusal to be bribed with our own tax dollars we can continue turning the tide. At the same time, the new leaders in Washington and those who profess to be conservative, should vote to handcuff the big spenders by simplifying our tax system once and for all and amending the Constitution to restrict federal spending.." (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. Texas Gov. Rick Perry: It Is Time to Get America Working Again. 14 August 2011. "We're indignant about a government that borrows trillions of dollars because they don't have the courage to say no. We're indignant about failed stimulus plans that have prolonged our economic misery. We're indignant that Iowa companies like Rockwell Collins, HNI Corporation and Heartland Express hit their 52-week low on this week's stock market because of our president's failed experiment in Keynesian economics." (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. Fox News "Fox News Sunday with Chris Wallace" – Transcript. 11 December 2011. “We are interested in creating a climate where people who have money can risk their capital. And it's not rich people. It's about small mom and pop businesses who are afraid because of Obamacare, afraid because of over-regulation, afraid because of over- taxation that come straight out of Washington, D.C., that they can't risk their capital. They can't create jobs that in turn will create the wealth. That's what we need to be focused. Not temporary tax cuts that are going to temporarily stimulate. We already had some of that stimulation out of Washington, D.C. -- trillions of dollars. We found out $7.7 trillion was secretly moved from the Treasury to these Wall Street financers. That's what Americans are upset about, Chris.” (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. CNN "CNN-Tea Party Republican Debate" – Transcript. 12 September 2011. “This president does not understand how to free up the small businessmen and women or, for that matter, Wall Street. You give people the opportunity to risk their capital by lowering the tax burden on them, by lowering the regulatory climate, and you will see an American economy that takes off like a rocket ship. And that's what we need to be focusing on in this country, freeing up the small businessmen and women to do what they know how to do, which is risk their capital and give them half a chance to have an opportunity to have a return on that investment, and they will go risk their capital. That's what the president of the United States needs to do: Quit the spending. Give clear regulatory relief and reform the tax code.” (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. Gov. Perry: Fiscal Responsibility is Essential for Prosperity and Job Creation. 10 August 2011. “Government can only create the environment that allows the private sector to create jobs. The single most important contributor to our jobs-friendly climate here in Texas is our low tax burden because we know dollars do far more to create jobs and prosperity in the people's hands, than they do in the government's. […] These measures have helped make Texas a beacon for employers fleeing the sort of over-taxing, over-regulating and over-litigating atmosphere that has taken hold in so many other states.” (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. Fox News-Google GOP Debate. 22 September 2011. “Americans want a leader who's got a proven record of job creation. Number one, we get rid of Obamacare. Secondly, we pull back all of those regulations that are job-killing today, whether it's Dodd-Frank or whether it's the EPA. And then we sit with Congress and we lower those corporate tax rates, we lower those personal tax rates, and then we put our plan to make America energy independent, and that is the way you get America working again. If it will work in the state of Texas, it will work in Washington, D.C. And that's exactly what I'm going bring to Washington when I go there in November -- or, excuse me, in January of 2013.” (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. Fox News “Hannity” - Transcript. 22 September 2011. “People understand that if you will empower the private sector, if you will empower those small business men and women across the country out there, and remove the double whammy of over taxation and over regulation, that they will go risk their capital and they will create jobs that will in turn create wealth.” (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. Rick Perry's Remarks at the Game On! Symposium. 7 April 2010. "We already have the most job-friendly economy in the nation thanks to our low taxes and sensible regulations along with our fair legal system and constantly improving schools. We also have what industry folks have told me is one of the most sensible and useful incentive programs in the country." (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. Republican Debate at the Reagan Presidential Library. 7 September 2011. “You want to create jobs in America? You free the American entrepreneur to do what he or she does, which is risk their capital, and I'll guarantee you, the entrepreneur in America, the small businessman and woman, they're looking for a president that will say we're going to lower the tax burden on you and we're going to lower the regulation impact on you, and free them to do what they do best: create jobs.” (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. Gov. Perry Speaks at Construction Expo. 30 June 2009. "As I look out across this gathering here today, I see the sort of hardworking people who have made our state great, folks who aren't afraid to get their hands dirty, their boots muddy and their faces sunburned, as you build the facilities and infrastructure that keep our economy rolling. At the same time, you create jobs for Texans, something that we happen to do better than just about every other state." (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. Gov Perry: Innovation Will Help Create New Clean Energy Sources. 19 August 2009. "House Bill 432 addresses the fact that our state is a leader in the research and production of alternative fuels, but we lack the infrastructure to get it to drivers who would use it to fuel their vehicles. Since our state already spends money on a fleet, this bill requires it to include vehicles that use alternative fuels. That will drive the creation of a basic distribution infrastructure and take advantage of the fuels we produce in Texas, including that natural gas coming from the Barnett Shale." (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. Issue Position: Transportation. 10 August 2011. “More than 1,000 people move to Texas everyday, making it increasingly important that we utilize all funding available to maintain our transportation infrastructure. Currently, billions of dollars are diverted from our state's transportation fund for other purposes. Gov. Perry supports ending these diversions and took Texas in the right direction by signing a budget for 2010-11 that ended more than $300 million in transportation diversions, putting them back to helping build and maintain roads.” (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. Fox News-Google GOP Debate. 22 September 2011. “I highly respect the president and his public service. What we have in -- in -- in difference is probably as much as in style as in substance on various issues. For instance, you know, I was very vocal in my disagreement with him on Medicaid Part D that the federal government should be involved in that very expensive program. And I was also vocal against No Child Left Behind. It gets back to the federal government has no business telling the states how to educate our children.” (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. Gov. Perry: Texas is a National Leader in College- and Career- Readiness; Will Not Apply for Second Round of Federal Race to the Top Funding. 1 June 2010. "This administration's attempt to bait states into adopting national standards is an effort to undermine states' authority to determine how their students are educated, and is clearly aimed at circumventing laws prohibiting national standards. Abandoning state standards and adopting new nationalized standards would cost Texas taxpayers $3 billion, and would likely weaken the rigorous college- and career-ready standards and assessments already in place in our state." (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. San Francisco Chronicle - Perry Decides to Forgo Federal School Money. 13 January 2010. 'Our states and our communities must reserve the right to decide how we educate our children and not surrender that control to a federal bureaucracy." (votesmart.org)
  • Forbes "Perry has a long record of speaking out on education issues, including banning Common Core curriculum standards in Texas. As governor he promoted homeschooling as well as lifting the cap on charter schools. As a presidential contender in 2012, he supported the elimination of the Department of Education." (www.usnews.com)
  • US News "The states are laboratories of reform, led by vigorous governors. This is not sentiment. It is hardheaded realism: Prison systems cost the states more than $50 billion a year, Viguerie reported, up from about $9 billion in 1985. Texas, under the leadership of Gov. Rick Perry, in 2007 rejected a proposal to build eight prisons. Instead, it is shifting nonviolent offenders into alternative treatment. Probation rather than prison is a key. Savings of approximately $2 billion were achieved in projected corrections spending increases, Viguerie wrote. The incarceration rate has fallen nearly 20 percent, and Texas now has its lowest crime rate since 1968." (www.usnews.com)
  • FAMM "Texas Governor Rick Perry has been similarly outspoken on the need for criminal justice and sentencing reforms. At a panel earlier this year at CPAC, Governor Perry criticized "harsh minimum sentencing guidelines" and endorsed alternatives to incarceration for drug offenders. He highlighted Texas' reforms, and added that Texas is "not a soft on crime state, but I hope we get the reputation of being a smart on crime state." Perry went further, explaining that conservatives should be leading on criminal justice reform: "You want to talk about real conservative governance? Shut prisons down. Save that money."" (famm.org)
  • Rick Perry. Statement by Gov. Perry on the EPA's Denial of Texas Petition. 29 July 2010. "I'm disappointed, but hardly surprised, given this administration's ongoing disregard for Texas air quality successes and Texas jobs. The State of Texas will continue to fight this federal overreach by unelected bureaucrats through appropriate legal action, which I hope will allow us to continue our effective environmental programs while protecting countless Texas jobs." (votesmart.org)
  • "Gov. Rick Perry announced Tuesday the state is suing the Environmental Protection Agency over its recent finding that greenhouse gases endanger human health, the latest volley in his administration's firefight with federal authorities over climate change" (votesmart.org)
  • "In his remarks, the governor noted that to truly protect taxpayers, a Balanced Budget Amendment to the U.S. Constitution is absolutely necessary. He pledged to reduce spending across several agencies including the Department of Education, Department of Energy and Environmental Protection Agency, while returning greater regulatory control of those responsibilities to the states. Gov. Perry's plan to balance the budget will cut federal spending to 18 percent of GDP from the current rate of about 23 percent and will reduce non-defense discretionary spending by $100 billion in the first year. It will also institute other fiscal reforms, including elimination of baseline budgeting, an end to non-emergency spending in emergency bills, and the elimination of earmarks." (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. Gov. Perry Accepts Recommendations from the Texas Advisory Panel on Federal Environment Regulation. 25 November 2008. "Unfortunately, Washington has Texas in its sights again. The EPA is making plans to re-interpret the Federal Clean Air Act in ways that were never contemplated when this law was passed, ways that will ultimately cripple the Texas economy. If the EPA moves to include greenhouse gases in the Clean Air Act, it will extend their power into virtually every sector of the economy, having a massively negative effect on each. At a time when jobs across the country are disappearing and the federal government is throwing hundreds of billions of taxpayer dollars at failing companies, it strikes me as odd that they would be contemplating ways to do more economic harm." (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. Texas Takes Legal Action Against Federal Government Over EPA CO2 Mandates. 16 February 2010. “Texas is aggressively seeking its future in alternative energy through incentives and innovation, not mandates and overreaching regulation. The EPA's misguided plan paints a big target on the backs of Texas agriculture and energy producers and the hundreds of thousands of Texans they employ.” (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. Statement by Gov. Rick Perry on Announced Job Losses Due to EPA Rule. 12 September 2011. “The Obama Administration continues to put up road blocks for our nation's job creators by imposing burdensome regulations based on assumptions, not facts, that will result in job losses and increased energy costs with no definite environmental benefit. Yet again, this administration is ignoring Texas' proven track record of cleaning our air while creating jobs, opting instead for more stifling red tape. As expected, the only results of this rule will be putting Texans out of work and creating hardships for them and their families, while putting the reliability of Texas' grid in jeopardy." (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. Gov. Perry: Proposed EPA Rules Will Cripple Texas Economy. 25 November 2008. "I am calling on the EPA to suppress the urge to regulate and include greenhouse gases in the Clean Air Act and find ways to unleash our economy, not strangle it." (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. Gov. Perry Announces Formation of Gulf Project. 6 July 2010. “To keep our status as the energy capital of the nation and preserve our environment, jobs and economy, Texas must become the world leader in developing the next generation in offshore oil exploration safety and response. The Gulf Project is an unprecedented collaboration of the state's top scientists, engineers and researchers, focused on protecting our residents, environment and economy, and solving the unique challenges presented by the next generation of domestic energy exploration and production.” (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. Statement by Gov. Perry Regarding Offshore Oil Exploration. 18 June 2008. “I applaud President Bush and Senator McCain for their call to lift the federal ban on offshore oil exploration to expand domestic production. This is a vital step at a critical moment in our nation's history that will alleviate the ongoing strain Americans and Texans are enduring from ever increasing gasoline and energy prices.” (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. The Biggest Challenge to the Energy Industry is Federal Overregulation. 28 July 2010. '"We are entering an uncertain time in Texas energy and much of that uncertainty is man-made in Washington, D.C. There was a time when the biggest threat to our energy industry was foreign competition, but I sincerely believe that the biggest challenge facing you all today is a federal government that ends up doing more harm than good when it tries to help."' (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. CBS "CBS News/National Journal Debate" – Transcript. 12 November 2011. “Now let me address this issue of Afghanistan and how we deal with it. The mission must be completed there. The idea that we will have wasted our treasure and the lives of young Americans to not secure Afghanistan is not appropriate. But the idea that we would give a timetable to our enemy is irresponsible from a military standpoint, it's irresponsible from the lives of our young men and women. And it is irresponsible leadership of this president to give a timetable to pull out of any country that we're in conflict with.” (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. Gov. Perry's Remarks at the Veterans of Foreign Wars 112th National Convention. 29 August 2011. “The men and women of the United States Military are the greatest ambassadors of freedom this nation has ever sent abroad. That's why, when we send them to war, we must give them every weapon and every resource to help them succeed. And when those heroes come home, many physically scarred, others emotionally...we must devote whatever resources are needed to help them heal and live fulfilling lives.” (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. CNN "CNN-Tea Party Republican Debate" – Transcript. 12 September 2011. “BLITZER: Very quickly, to Governor Perry, $2 billion a week, is that money well spent by U.S. taxpayers in Afghanistan? PERRY: Well, I agree with Governor Huntsman when we talk about it's time to bring our young men and women home and as soon and obviously as safely as we can. But it's also really important for us to continue to have a presence there. And I think the entire conversation about, how do we deliver our aid to those countries, and is it best spent with 100,000 military who have the target on their back in Afghanistan, I don't think so at this particular point in time. I think the best way for us to be able to impact that country is to make a transition to where that country's military is going to be taking care of their people, bring our young men and women home, and continue to help them build the infrastructure that we need, whether it's schools for young women like yourself or otherwise.” (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. Gov. Perry Celebrates the Proud Service of the Texas Guard. 26 March 2010. “Here in Texas, we are not only obligated to support our veterans and their families, we are honored to do so. In the months to come, I don't expect the pace of operations to slow down much…as Afghanistan continues to boil, and storm season slowly unfolds in the Gulf of Mexico. [...] No matter what your connection to the Guard, the fact remains that you are making a difference. You play a role in making our state safer, projecting power around the globe, and defending the freedom that is a part of our nation's DNA.” (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. Texas Governor Rick Perry's Remarks to the California Republican Convention- Transcript. 7 September 2007. “Ladies and Gentlemen, I realize that that the war on terror is not popular in some quarters of this country. But I believe that it is right and just. And I believe that thoughtful people will agree with my concern about the impact another Clinton administration would have on the men and women who today stand between us and the terrorists who would destroy America. Every day that passes without an attack on America by the people that hate us is a credit to the men and women of the armed forces, the intelligence community and the people who guard our borders. The terrorist element in the Middle East hates our way of life. And even with the battle raging in Iraq and Afghanistan, we cannot turn a blind eye to the regime in Iran that would obliterate the only democracy in the Middle East if they had a chance.” (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. Appropriate to Target Terrorists in any Country: US Governor. 22 May 2011. "It is absolutely appropriate to penetrate into any country that is harbouring terrorists that are planning to do ill will to citizens of the United States or our forces." (votesmart.org)
  • CNN "Former Texas Gov. Rick Perry says he would send American troops to the Middle East to combat Islamic State fighters who he called "the face of evil." [?] "We are going to have to have our military actively engaged" with other countries' armed forces that are combating ISIS, he said. That means boots on the ground, Perry said." (votesmart.org)
  • Yes
  • Wall Street Journal "When Mr. Perry sought the 2012 Republican presidential nomination, he memorably suggested in a debate that those who opposed the Texas Dream Act don't "have a heart." Now, with the benefit of hindsight and months of preparation for a probable 2016 White House bid, the governor, who leaves office in the coming week, says he chose the wrong words but was right about the policy. His stance suggests he will stake out a nuanced position on immigration in a future campaign at a time when many Texas Republicans are advocating a repeal of the in-state-tuition law, and as President Barack Obama's recent actions delaying deportations have stirred anger among GOP activists and lawmakers." (www.wsj.com)
  • "Gov. Rick Perry today released the following statement regarding President Obama's announcement of executive action on illegal immigration: "In Texas we know firsthand the problems brought by illegal immigration and bad federal policy. As we saw with the tens of thousands of unaccompanied minors who came across the border, a bad policy led to children being put at risk. The president's decision tonight will lead to more illegal immigration, not less. It is time for the president and Congress to secure our border, followed by meaningful reforms. There is no more time for political grandstanding.'" (votesmart.org)
  • "Additionally, the governor noted that following the dramatic influx of unaccompanied minors that illegally crossed into Texas over the summer, Texas has updated its contingency plan for dealing with potential mass migration scenarios. The governor noted that President Obama's announcement of executive action granting amnesty to millions in the U.S. illegally makes a mass migration scenario more likely than ever before." (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. Gov. Perry's Remarks at the Veterans of Foreign Wars 112th National Convention. 29 August 2011. “In the dangerous world we live in today, our enemies often don't wear a uniform or swear allegiance to a particular flag, but instead to an ideology of hatred. As the tenth anniversary of the attacks of 9-11 approaches, we must renew our commitment to taking the fight to the enemy, wherever they are, before they strike at home.” (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. Remarks by Governor Rick Perry Delivered at the Veterans of Foreign Wars State Convention. 29 June 2006. "Like those who served before them, the men and women serving today know that for freedom to prevail, America must persevere. And they know we face only one choice in the War on Terror: either we fight in the mountains of Asia and the deserts of the Middle East, or on the streets of New York, Washington, D.C. and Houston." (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. Gov. Perry's Remarks at National Day of Prayer Breakfast. 3 May 2011. "The actions of a determined and courageous few Sunday night in Pakistan removed an enemy of peace from our world, a twisted soul who hijacked a faith as surely as his minions hijacked four airliners on a crisp September morning nearly 10 years ago. While we all know al Qaeda in particular, and terrorism in general, won't end with the death of one terrorist, this weekend marked a milestone in our ongoing struggle with the specter of global terror." (votesmart.org)
  • Texas State Rifle Association. 2010. Project Vote Smart: Interest Group Ratings. 23 June 2011. "In 2010 the Texas State Rifle Association gave Governor Perry a grade of A+." (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. Gov. Perry Signs Bill To Protect Gun Owners' Rights. 17 June 2005. “The right to keep and bear arms is a fundamental right of every law-abiding citizen of our country. This legislation will clarify existing firearm laws, enhance protections for law abiding gun owners and reduce barriers for gun ownership.” (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. NRA National Convention. 15 April 2005. "As a gun owner and avid hunter, I appreciate the work the NRA does day in and day out to protect our right to bear arms... although I don’t get to exercise that right as often as I’d like... especially when our legislature is in session... as it is now." (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. Chron: Perry: Banning Pistols Isn't The Answer. 1 May 2007. "I think it makes sense for Texans to be able to protect themselves from deranged individuals, whether they're in church, or whether on a college campus or wherever they are. The idea that you're going to exempt them from a particular place is nonsense to me." (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. Statement by Gov. Rick Perry Regarding the U.S. Supreme Court Ruling Upholding 2nd Amendment. 26 June 2008. "Texans have long held that it is a fundamental right of every law-abiding citizen to keep and bear arms. Affirmation from our country's highest court should unquestionably cement this right for future generations of Texans and Americans." (votesmart.org)
  • National Rifle Association Political Victory Fund. 2010. Project Vote Smart: Interest Group Ratings. 23 June 2011. "n 2010 the National Rifle Association Political Victory Fund gave Governor Perry a grade of A+. (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. Gov. Perry's Remarks at the ALEC 2010 States and Nation Policy Summit. 3 December 2010. "On November 2nd, 2010, the people pushed back against a Washington establishment that spends and borrows too much, while blissfully ignoring both the Constitution and the wishes of the American people. This affirmation of the power that individual Americans hold and the repudiation of an overly-controlling central government can and should serve as a catalyst for a national dialogue. As our citizens elect leaders who are willing to fight for our beliefs and hold them accountable to deliver on their promises, including that one about repealing nationalized health care, we will see our country begin to turn in the right direction." (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. Republican Debate at the Reagan Presidential Library. 7 September 2011. “My wife is a nurse. And I'll promise you, we understand that if we can get the federal government out of our business in the states when it comes to health care, we'll come up with ways to deliver more health care to more people cheaper than what the federal government is mandating today with their strings attached, here's how you do it, one-size-fits-all effort out of Washington, D.C. That's got to stop. On day one, as the president of the United States, that executive order will be signed and Obamacare will be wiped out as much as it can be.” (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. Fox News “Hannity” - Transcript. 22 September 2011. “Well, the biggest issue that is going on out there is we are spending money we don't have on programs we don't want. Obamacare is a great example of it, forcing a program that the American people don't want. And now we've read it and we've looked at it. So, repealing Obamacare would be one of the first things that I would do within my power either with executive order, obviously working with the legislature to get rid of the rest of it.” (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. Fox News-Google GOP Debate. 22 September 2011. “Americans want a leader who's got a proven record of job creation. Number one, we get rid of Obamacare.” (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. Statement By Gov. Rick Perry on U.S. District Court Ruling on Health Care Act. 13 December 2010. "Today's court decision on the federal health care bill is promising news for Texans and all Americans, who have had enough of the ongoing federal intrusion into their lives, and who reject this one-size-fits-all approach to dealing with health care. The federal government's attempt to force every American to buy government-approved health insurance is an egregious violation of our Constitutional rights. The 10th Amendment and individual liberties must be protected, and I am committed to fighting the overreach of Obamacare and challenging these unconstitutional mandates, which have gone far beyond both the letter and spirit of the Constitution." (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. Op-Ed: Health Care Fight Isn't Over. 8 April 2010. "President Obama's signature on Congress's disastrous health care plan was a disappointment to everyone who values limited government, bipartisanship and -- most of all -- quality and affordable health care. [...] This bill represents a federal overreach unprecedented in scope, reaching into the lives of each and every person in America today, with the staggering costs handed down to generations yet unborn. The fight, however, is far from over." (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. Gov. Perry: We Must Reform, Streamline State Government. 8 February 2011. "Tell them it's time to repeal Obamacare, with its mandates that will cripple our healthcare system, and a price tag that will bust our budget. Our Medicaid population and accompanying financial burden are growing as we speak, and, in 2014, ObamaCare will cause them to explode. This Washington-centric healthcare plan puts many states on a collision course with bankruptcy. Instead of oppressive mandates, we need solutions like block grants, and the freedom to improve health care delivery, with innovation, flexibility and local input from leaders like Senator Jane Nelson. We most definitely do not need Washington encroaching even further on our individual liberties." (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. Cost of Healthcare Proposals Would Cripple States. 30 September 2009. "By an overwhelming margin, the governors opposed expanding Medicaid as an option to increase healthcare accessibility. State budgets are unable to shoulder a massive unfunded mandate, which would result from such an increase and force states to either raise taxes or make further cuts to state budgets." (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. Cost Of Healthcare Proposals Would Cripple States. 30 September 2009. "These one-size-fits-all government mandates are both unsustainable and unable to fix our broken health care system." (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. Gov. Perry: SB 7 Gives Texas Flexibility to Develop Our Own Solutions. 18 July 2011. “On a personal level, Obamacare's mandate will unconstitutionally punish Americans who don't buy health care insurance. Again, this is only the latest example of this type of overreach, an overreach sparked and sustained by the misguided notion that Washington knows best in all things.” (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. Statement by Gov. Rick Perry on U.S. District Court Ruling on Health Care Act. 13 December 2010. "The federal government's attempt to force every American to buy government-approved health insurance is an egregious violation of our Constitutional rights. The 10th Amendment and individual liberties must be protected, and I am committed to fighting the overreach of Obamacare and challenging these unconstitutional mandates, which have gone far beyond both the letter and spirit of the Constitution." (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. Statement by Gov. Rick Perry on Federal Appeals Court Ruling on Obamacare. 12 August 2011. "Yet another federal court has recognized that the Obama Administration's attempt to force each and every American to purchase health insurance is an egregious violation of our Constitutional rights. This court decision further confirms that Obamacare ignores both the Constitution's limits on the power of our federal government, and its protections of individual liberties. I am hopeful that we will soon see an end to the unprecedented and massive federal overreach of Obamacare." (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. Gov. Perry: We Must Reform, Streamline State Government. 8 February 2011. "Instead of oppressive mandates, we need solutions like block grants, and the freedom to improve health care delivery, with innovation, flexibility and local input from leaders like Senator Jane Nelson. We most definitely do not need Washington encroaching even further on our individual liberties." (votesmart.org)
  • "When it came to border issues, Perry said what's needed to secure the border is not a fence, but manpower. Perry also said the government needs to send drones to hover over the border, all day, every day. But all of that may not even be necessary, Perry argued, if the Keystone Pipeline were allowed. Perry said the pipeline would create better jobs for Mexicans in Mexico and thus stem the tide of immigrants looking for work in America." (votesmart.org)
  • Wall Street Journal "When Mr. Perry sought the 2012 Republican presidential nomination, he memorably suggested in a debate that those who opposed the Texas Dream Act don't "have a heart." Now, with the benefit of hindsight and months of preparation for a probable 2016 White House bid, the governor, who leaves office in the coming week, says he chose the wrong words but was right about the policy. His stance suggests he will stake out a nuanced position on immigration in a future campaign at a time when many Texas Republicans are advocating a repeal of the in-state-tuition law, and as President Barack Obama's recent actions delaying deportations have stirred anger among GOP activists and lawmakers."
  • "Gov. Rick Perry today released the following statement regarding President Obama's announcement of executive action on illegal immigration: "In Texas we know firsthand the problems brought by illegal immigration and bad federal policy. As we saw with the tens of thousands of unaccompanied minors who came across the border, a bad policy led to children being put at risk. The president's decision tonight will lead to more illegal immigration, not less. It is time for the president and Congress to secure our border, followed by meaningful reforms. There is no more time for political grandstanding.'" (votesmart.org)
  • "Additionally, the governor noted that following the dramatic influx of unaccompanied minors that illegally crossed into Texas over the summer, Texas has updated its contingency plan for dealing with potential mass migration scenarios. The governor noted that President Obama's announcement of executive action granting amnesty to millions in the U.S. illegally makes a mass migration scenario more likely than ever before." (votesmart.org)
  • "The second order of business is for the president to approve the Keystone Pipeline. After six years, we have had enough of presidential dithering and debating, enough of coalition politics to appease a narrow base at the expense of the national interest. Keystone will create thousands of jobs, reduce our reliance on hostile energy, and show that this Administration is finally serious about energy security." (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. Text of Gov. Rick Perry's State-of-the-State Address. 6 February 2007. “Immigration reform is a federal issue. That's why I urge Congress to pass reform that respects the rule of law. That means two things: those who come here illegally should not be rewarded with amnesty. And it also means those who hire illegal aliens should face tough penalties.” (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. Perry Calls on Texans to 'Imagine the Possibilities.' 16 January 2007. “We must secure the border with manpower, not unmanned walls. We must have a guest-worker program that recognizes the economic contributions of foreign workers and the desperate conditions that bring them here. And we must oppose amnesty because those who come here illegally should not be able to receive citizenship ahead of those who migrate here legally.” (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. Governor Perry's Speech to the 2006 Republican Party of Texas Convention. 2 June 2006. “As a nation of immigrants, we welcome those who contribute to our society, pay taxes and arrive here lawfully. Allowing those who break the rules to get legal status ahead of those who follow them is wrong, and is why I oppose amnesty.” (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. CNN "CNN-Tea Party Republican Debate" – Transcript. 12 September 2011. “I'm not for the DREAM Act that they are talking about in Washington D.C. that is amnesty.” (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. Gov. Perry: Important Strides Made In 2005 Legislative Session Work Still Left To Be Done. 31 May 2005. "And this November, voters will have the opportunity to adopt a constitutional amendment that affirms the sacred institution of marriage is between one man and one woman." (votesmart.org)
  • "Gov. Perry championed a constitutional amendment that defines marriage in Texas as the union of one man and one woman, which was passed by Texas voters in 2005." (votesmart.org)
  • "Under Gov. Perry, Texas is moving aggressively to create a diverse portfolio of energy sources, including renewable, natural gas, coal and nuclear power to meet the needs of our growing population in an eco-sensitive manner." (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. Gov. Perry Shares Staunch Commitment to Conservative Values At Thanksgiving Family Forum. 19 November 2011. “I am a faithful, fiscal and social conservative of conviction, not of convenience. As Governor of the State of Texas, I have signed more pro-life legislation than any governor in my state's history and championed and signed the Texas Defense of Marriage Act. Traditional family values are important to me, to the people of Iowa and to citizens and future of our nation. America needs to reenergize limited government, entrepreneurship and the traditional values that helped us become the greatest, most prosperous nation in history.” (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. Statement By Gov. Perry on Ruling Regarding the Definition of Marriage. 1 October 2009. "Texas voters and lawmakers have repeatedly affirmed the view that marriage is defined as between one man and one woman. […] I am confident that Attorney General Abbott and the will of Texas voters will prevail, and traditional marriage will be upheld in our state." (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. Issue Position: Pro-Life. 15 June 2011. "Protecting Traditional Marriage. Gov. Perry championed a constitutional amendment that defines marriage in Texas as the union of one man and one woman, which was passed by Texas voters in 2005." (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. Fox News 'Hannity' - Transcript. 22 September 2011. "Republicans have identified that Social Security is wrong. […] So, are we going to raise the age at which people become eligible for it? Are we going to allow the young Americans out there that are working to have private sector account-type options? All of those are appropriate conversations to have.” (votesmart.org)
  • "To save Social Security for the long term, Gov. Perry proposes five principles: [...] Allow younger workers to invest a portion of their payroll taxes into private accounts if they so choose." (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. Rick Perry: Let States Secede From Social Security. 5 November 2010. "When you look at Social Security, it's broke. My kids - 27 and 24 - they know this is a Ponzi scheme. […] Well, I'll give you a good example. Taking Texas in 1981, the federal government allowed you to opt out of Social Security and to put your own private pension programs in place. Galveston, Brazoria, and Matagorda counties did that, and they have very healthy pension programs." (www.youtube.com)
  • "Obamacare is an abject failure; it's time to overturn this ill-conceived, job-killing nightmare that ultimately will bankrupt this country." (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. Texas Gov. Rick Perry: Let States Opt Out of Social Security. 5 November 2010. "Here's what I think would be a very wise thing. In 1981, Matagorda, Brazoria, and Galveston Counties all opted out of the Social Security program for their employees. Today, their program is very, very well-funded and there is no question about whether it’s going to be funded in the out years. It’s there. That’s an option out there." (votesmart.org)
  • Rick Perry. Fox News 'Fox News Sunday' - Transcript. 21 November 2010. "What I'm saying is that between Social Security, Medicaid and Medicare, there's $106 trillion of unfunded liabilities and not one dime saved to pay for them. My children who are in their 20s know that Social Security is a Ponzi scheme." (votesmart.org)

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