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- iHaveNet.com: Politics
by Alex M. Parker
The past few weeks haven't been kind to Texas Gov. Rick Perry and his dreams of
becoming the Republican nominee for president. Weak performances in the debates and a surprising loss in the
Florida straw poll has left Perry reeling. Despite an early run of strong polls, a recent
Despite his floundering, it may be premature to write Perry's political obituary just yet -- if only because he's proven himself in the past to be a political survivor. Perry is the longest-serving Texas governor in history, winning re-election three times in races that were hardly cakewalks. Most recently, Perry defeated former Texas Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison, even though she had strong support from Texas icons such as former president George H. W. Bush.
Here are some ways that Perry could rebound in the 2012 race.
Study up on policy
Maybe Perry can improve his debate performance, maybe not. Debates are important, but not critical to success in a primary. But Perry isn't going to improve his chances of victory unless he gets specific on policy -- and fast. So far, Perry has yet to articulate clear plans on the economy or entitlement reform, the two most important domestic issues in the race. On
Perry's biggest weakness right now isn't any one of his positions. It's a growing sense among Republicans that he isn't ready for prime-time. Articulating clear policy proposals can address that.
Play the underdog
Taking a hit this early in the campaign may be a blessing in disguise for Perry. The underdog status can be a gold mine in the
Focus on the grassroots
Perry's path to the nomination remains pretty straightforward. Win the Iowa caucuses, put up a respectable fight in New Hampshire, crush Romney in South Carolina, and carry enough momentum to win the big states. Minnesota Rep. Michele Bachmann, who captured an early lead in the Iowa, has been floundering. Her loss has been Perry's gain. Romney has been doing well in Iowa, too -- a recent poll from the
AMERICAN POLITICS
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Don't Write Rick Perry Off Just Yet | Politics
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