2010: Clements Endorses Perry

Former Gov. Bill Clements, who lives not too far from U.S. Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison, endorsed Gov. Rick Perry for reelection. Some history: Clements was first elected in 1978, after he beat Ray Hutchison — husband of the senator — in the GOP primary. He lost his reelection bid and then won a second term in 1986.

Here's the announcement:

Gov. Rick Perry today received the endorsement of former Texas Governor Bill Clements for re-election in 2010.

"After careful thought and a deep love for Texas, Rita and I have decided to endorse Gov. Rick Perry for governor. I have watched Gov. Perry lead our state with principled, conservative values that have made Texas a positive example for other states to follow. Gov. Perry has made tough decisions that have brought Texas to the forefront of the global economy, have helped provide Texans the jobs and opportunities they need to prosper. He has vetoed billions in spending, cut taxes for 40,000 small businesses and balanced five state budgets while cutting state spending. Under his leadership, Texas is number one in job creation and has the nation's five best housing markets. His commitment to creating jobs, keeping taxes low and fostering an environment that welcomes and rewards those willing to risk their capital is what will keep our economy moving forward well into the future. Gov. Perry has my full support and endorsement.  Sen. Hutchison has been an effective senator for Texas and I hope she remains in that position."

Gov. Clements was the first Republican to serve as Texas governor since Reconstruction. He was the 42nd and 44th governor of Texas serving from 1979 to 1983 and 1987 to 1991. Clements is remembered for bringing his business acumen to state government, and insisting on sound budgeting and management policies. He also worked for tough anti-crime measures, improvements in the teaching of basics in public schools, and made strides to improve Texas relations with Mexico. Clements served as Deputy U.S. Secretary of Defense in the Nixon and Ford administrations.

Mrs. Clements has served on a variety of governmental commissions, including the University of Texas Board of Regents, and on the boards of many philanthropic and public service organizations, including the Salvation Army Dallas Metroplex Advisory Board, Center for Human Nutrition and the Communities Foundation of Texas.

“I am deeply honored to receive Gov. and Mrs. Clements' support in my reelection effort,” said Gov. Perry. "The Clements have made a remarkable and lasting impact on the state of Texas – Bill through his efforts to uphold fiscally prudent policies that strengthened our state’s economic foundation, and Rita through her dedicated, selfless service on various government and philanthropic boards. Their legacy has left us a Texas that is strong and that has the foundation to weather the challenges that the national economy has posed in recent months. I am humbled to follow in Gov. Clements' footsteps as governor of this great state, and inspired by his accomplishments to continue fighting for the principles that have kept taxes low, upheld predictable regulations and maintained a business climate that offers all Texans the freedom to succeed.”