Update 2:20 p.m.: Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott issued the following statement:
“It has been a tremendous honor to work alongside Governor Rick Perry to help lead the great State of Texas. As Governor, Rick Perry has fought for lower taxes, less regulation and more job creation all of which have helped Texas claim the best business climate in the nation. Along the way, Governor Perry has kept Washington in check, working to block an intrusive federal government from meddling in our personal lives and preventing the heavy-hand of government from stifling small businesses in Texas.
Our work together is not done, and over the next year and a half, we will continue our work to keep Texas the very best state for attracting jobs, raising families and advancing freedom.”
Texas Gov. Rick Perry said Monday he will not seek re-election next year, bringing an end to a record run as chief executive of the Lone Star state.
“The time has come to pass on the mantle of leadership,” Perry, a Republican, said at a news conference in San Antonio surrounded by hundreds of supporters.
Perry’s departure sets up the biggest political shuffle in Texas since 1990, the last time there was an open race for governor. Perry, 63, is already the longest-serving governor in Texas history and has been the Lone Star state’s chief executive since December 2000 when George W. Bush left to become president.
To read the full story, visit USAToday.com.
F-I-N-A-L-L-Y. Amen.