Texas Gov. Rick Perry shakes up GOP field

photo In this July 27, 2011, file photo, Texas Gov. Rick Perry speaks at a ceremonial bill signing for a new tort reform measure in Houston. According to Perry spokesman Mark Miner, the Texas governor will announce on Saturday, Aug. 13, that he is running for president. (AP Photo/Pat Sullivan, File)

A lot of Republicans would like to be the one to challenge -- and defeat -- President Barack Obama next year. But who will break from the pack and become the nominee?

It could be the most recent GOP candidate: Texas Gov. Rick Perry.

He tossed his hat in the ring on Saturday, and he is getting a lot of attention as the governor of a big state that has seen a good deal of job creation despite the economic crisis.

Perry says he wants to reduce the role of the federal government. He says he wants to make intrusive Washington "as inconsequential in your lives as I can."

That will appeal to many.

Perry says he is a tax cutter and wants to restore fiscal responsibility to a nation that has high taxes and a $14.6 trillion debt.

He emphasizes the importance of individual liberty, too.

"We don't see the role of government as guaranteeing outcomes, but allowing free men and women to flourish based on their own vision, their hard work and their personal responsibility," Perry said in Charleston, S.C., when he announced his candidacy.

He also opposes abortion, and he is an evangelical Christian. Perry has the backing of many in the conservative, fiscally minded tea party, and among other social conservatives.

Of unfortunately equal importance in a presidential campaign, he is reputed to be able to raise campaign funds in large amounts.

Perry will surely be a major contender for the Republican presidential nomination.

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