Gov. Rick Perry announced Monday that he will not run for re-election next year, creating the first open race for Texas governor since 1990 and making Attorney General Greg Abbott the instant favorite to replace him. Perry’s exit from the statewide stage after nearly a quarter century doesn’t necessarily end his political ambition. He has said previously that he would make his decision about a White House bid before the end of this year; Perry made a brief and oblique mention of another run for national office. Abbott will officially announce his plans on Sunday in San Antonio, followed by a multi-city swing through the state next week.