Is it time for Rick Perry to withdraw from the presidential race?
FROM CNN's Jack Cafferty:
Not since Sarah Palin sat down with Katie Couric has a candidate for the nation's highest office looked as bad as Rick Perry did Wednesday night.
Here’s what the Texas governor said:
"I will tell you, it is three agencies of government when I get there that are gone. Commerce, Education, and the - what's the third one there? Let's see. OK. Commerce, Education, and the ... "
"EPA?" Mitt Romney offered.
"EPA, there you go," Perry said.
When pressed by the moderator, Perry admitted it wasn't the EPA.
Then he tried again:
"The third agency of government I would – I would do away with Education, the Commerce, and, let's see. I can't. The third one, I can't. Sorry. Oops."
Right after that debate on CNBC, Perry rushed to the spin room where he tried to make light of what he had done.
"I'm glad I had my boots on tonight. I really stepped in it."
Note to Mr. Perry: It's time to go away now. This wasn't the first time you came off as an intellectual lightweight in these debates.
This "aw shucks," grade – school stuff may play in Texas - but I, sir, don't want you anywhere near the nuclear launch codes.
We have a world on the brink of economic collapse and a Middle East on the brink of another war.
There is trouble all around, and you lay claim to being able to run the country with what amounts to half a loaf.
The saying is, "Half a loaf is better than none."
In Rick Perry's case, that's not true. Please just go away.
Here’s my question to you: Is it time for Rick Perry to withdraw from the presidential race?
Tune in to the Situation Room at 5pm to see if Jack reads your answer on air.
And, we love to know where you’re writing from, so please include your city and state with your comment.
@jackcafferty on Twitter
But Jack, it can't just be one who should leave the race, can it? Add Michelle, Herman, Newt, Ron, John and Rick to that growing list. Do we think there is someone in the wings waiting to take the word frontrunner ? The Republicans just keep looking for someone to unseat Mitt, good luck.
Honestly if I ran for President of the United States of America and was not number 1 or number 2 I would withdraw because in my opinion it would be a waste of my time and my money. I could spend my time instead going to hospitals to cheer up the little children that need my love but I wish Rick the best of luck if he stays in the race.
No way, Jack. And for one very important reason. Unfortunatey, I forgot what it was.
Rick Perry's withdrawal from the Republican primary is overdue. It's time to saddle up and head for the barn.
It's well past time, Jack. From the very first debate it has been obvious that Rick Perry does not posess the mental capacity one would expect, or rather demand, from the occupant of the oval office. Unfortunately Mr. Perry doesn't have the sense to realize that so he wasted a lot of other people's time and money while making a spectacle of himself. When he first emerged as a candidate someone from his home state said he was just like George Bush only dumber. I thought to myself "that's not possible". I was wrong.
Yes it is. From the beginning I considered Rick Perry another not-too-bright Texas Republican Governor. Been there – done that!
If he isn't out of money and he is learning as he goes, why not stay in? Especially if the people in Texas don't miss him much. Plus, the way the GOP field flops around with polls he could jump ahead again.
Jack, not until Bachmann does first. I'd say the same about Romney because I can't stand him, but he's the front runner so he won't be exiting any time soon. Come to think of it, they should all just back out. Isn't there a single reliable Republican in this country that can run for President?
Oh No!. I hope he wins the nomination. I think a Lincoln-Douglas style debate between Perry and Obama on Saturday Night Live would be the best show ever.
zzzz pathetically painful, depressing.
How can People have such low standards/ expectations for themselves to even waste any more time when we r in dire Times ! This man wants to eliminate education department?!?!?
He can't even communicate clear basic perspectives on his own fundamental beliefs?!?!? Bonkers.
Let him b an entertainer..
I'm sure he's a nice guy. Guess what though? Not a presidential candidate. No can do Ricky P. Unbelievable that this is where we stand after so much perseverance and achievements..... In this day and age . Can anyone say " Idiocracy)? 🙁
Mahalo.
Probably, considering with crossover votes, Mitt probably has it wrapped up at 46% and growing. The others are autidioning for VP, and Perry showed he can't even debate Biden – which is setting the bar fairly low.
Boots on Boots off... he stepped in it...there is just no recovering from that! Both he and Cain are having a lot of Senior moments lately. If Perry can't remember his own economic plan and Cain can't remember the people he meets...they both need to withdraw.
Nope.....we needs to keeps Rik Parry a-rond to remind us that we don't need no department of ed-u-ka-tion
Absolutely not ... the late night comedians need material.
I certainly hope so. It's bad enough having him as governor, no need to spread more of George W Bush. And that wagging index finger is so condescending as if he's scolding a child. He's pompous, arrogant and a you know what.... There's no reason for him to be spread nationwide.
What!? Have Rick Perry withdraw and deny us all that good entertainment from his fumbling?
Withdraw ??
Come on Jack, it's only Nov. 2011 !! If you reduce the Republican field this early in the battle who will the main stream media have left to demonize and destroy, by the time things get really serious ??
Yes Jack, Rick Perry should immediately withdraw from the race. He should also request his High Honors Diploma from the "George Bush School of Gaffes and Confusing Comments" correspondence class that he recently completed.
What, and lose all of those jobs for popcorn producers? This is pure entertainment.
It is totally upto him, coz it doesnt matter any more... people had enough....At tmes where most of the world and people of America are not confident of America;s future...He doesnt display confidence on subjects and thats the one most important thing that is needed to re-build the country...He might be a good leader....but its too early promotion for him to be a President..
Yes – His 15 minutes were up a long time ago, Jack.
It was time for Rick Perry to withdraw right after he announced his candidacy.
At this point, he's just become a joke.
Not only won't he be President, but it's becoming obvious that he's not much of a governor either, so his plan to keep getting elected over and over again in Texas as a fallback may no longer be viable.
tampa, fl he sounded like he had a snoot full. we don't need another drunk in the white house.
Absolutely not. This is too much fun. Can you imagine Perry as president " as president I have ordered a nuclear strike on the capital of oo oh aw can't remember. Was it Israel? Oops. Morning headline news "USA has nuked the wrong country". Come on Jack, Jon Stewart, Cobert and all the other comedians really need this guy.
John T Florida Keys
Jack,
The short answer is 'YES!' While watching the 'Oops!' moment, I choked on my vitamin water ... the guy is a laughing stock.
Rick,
Medina, OH
put away the cowboy boots... its time for Rick Perry to resign
yes it is time for rick to ride off into the sunset,and take the panel posse with him .where in boot hill did the republicans
dig up this mess of political clowns? If anyone of them get to be president,we will spend the next four years laughing
and crying at the same time.
The only comedy we get is from Rick, Newt, Michelle, Ron, Willard. As far as Herman Munster is concerned..he needs to be in Prison cell that will be soon be crowed with Penn St. Football coaches and ex-administrators and others to be announced, later. Yes Jack, they all need to quit. No Republican will stand any chance next November. Look for a huge turnover. I think everyone is turning away from Tea....and going back to basics. As long as those basics return all of the outsourced jobs, that is.
I have a three part answer to this question. 1. Yes. 2. Right now. 3. Ummm...I forget. OOPS!
Either that or write his talking points out on his hand for the next debate.
It must have been the Democrat machine made him stumble, Jack.
Heck no Jack. Every 3 ring circus needs a clown.
Rick Perry has embarrassed himself enough. His inability to debate, his "loosy goosy" speech in New Hampshire and all of the many other gaffs he has made, I would say yes, he need to hang it up. Please have a little sympathy for the good people of Texas, as we are stuck with him for now.
No, he's no more ridiculous than any of those other clowns.
Rick Perry could still run as an Independent, and get a large block of the Religeous Rght vote. The Religeous right doesn't forgive sex related scandals, but they forgive stupid, because they don't know what stupid is. So what if Rick can only remember two Federal Departments. As long as Rick preaches no Abortion, he is allright with the Bible thumpers. And that is a large enough block, to prevent Romney, from beating Obama. That is a lot of clout, and Rick Perry will make some sort of hay out of it. Doug, Pepperell, MA.
I think it is time Rick Santorum, Michele Bachmann, Newt Gingrich, Mitt Romney, Herman Cain, Rick Perry, Ron Paul, Jon Huntsman, to get out of the race. The far right cannot fix the economic mess we live with today. It is possible they could have prevented today's economic dilemma if elected 30 years ago. On second thought we got a so-called right winger in Reagan, and during his term in office, trillions were borrowed, taxed and spent. On third thought maybe right wing is a pipe dream.
Yes! He is an embarrassment to a the Great State of Texas!
but then again, we have repeatedly re elected him with out every hearing him debate or give an interview..... we should be embarrassed!
Houston,TX
That's a decision only Gov. Perry can make, but the late night comedians must surely be hoping he won't.
Perry's alarm clock was put into snooze mode before he even said he was running for president. But then if he withdraws, who will provide all the debate comedy?
If Perry can't function in a debate, how ever will he function as President in a crisis? Time to send the good ole' boy out to a Texas pasture!
Ooops, one would think so- so far I have read three articles that state that Perry has done himself in- it's about time someone did!
Yes. He is an embarrassment to himself. The same applies to others. Ego is not enough, there must be substance.
Is it time for Rick Perry to withdraw from the presidential race?
It is long overdue.
Jenna
Roseville CA
No, Jack – I don't think so – As a Democrat of a state that will most likely be counted Republican, (remember they only count "electoral" Votes) ( 270 ) I think he should stay in the race. I'm not a Perry fan what-so-ever. But the only one I would Vote for is Romney – especially after last night's debate. I thought he carried his self very well, in what he said, and the way he said it. He's got more substance, than any of the others. To be perfectly honest, I think Perry will outlast Cain, because Cain doesn't have enough experience, and the knowledge, when you listen to him, especially when he keeps repeating his self. ( 999 ) & etc. Romney & Perry can give specifics on what & how they want to do. As a Democrat – let me say it in a nut shell – I'm ashamed and embarrassed of myself, that I voted for Obama. The best he's done in my opinion, is a D + (as far as giving Obama a Grade). ( the 'plus' is al waki / & bin laden and Gadaffy on his watch) I will absolutely / positively NOT Vote for Obama – for re-election, period. ( a lot of democrats that I have talked to, have said the same thing) They are waiting for somebody to come out as either a centrist, or even a little middle / right. Not "the Newt" ( he's got such a bad history) So – all that being said – Romney is who we're probably going to get – and I really think he will be Fair – and not for only the super rich – but he will be for the middle class also, – because if he isn't , or didn't go that way, he wouldn't get re-elected, period. The 'Newt' is smart – but not electable, in my opinion. I am sure the people in this country wants someone who they can actually look up to, when they go to cast their ballots, in 12 months. Romney has a very good personal record, and a very good Business record, overall. compared to 'the Newt' who I would not want to look up to, as a role model, if you know what I mean. I honestly think 'the Newt' would be "ruthless" if he were to be elected, as our President. I would Vote for Romney – if we were to Vote Today.
He should have withdrawn the day before he entered the race.
How does someone with his obvious short comings keep getting re-elected to run one of the country's biggest states?
Or has he been stealing the elections?
Mexico you're welcome to have Texas back.
Let's see. Romney is the hare, Gingrich is the tortoise, and Perry is the dead duck. Yes, he should quit.
No! Why single out Rick Perry? His paranormal weirdness is no different than all the other Republican candidates. It’s like “The Adams Family goes to Washington;” staring Mitt Romney as Gomez, Michele Bachmenn as Morticia, Newt Gingrich as Uncle Fester, Rick Perry as Lurch, Ron Paul as Pugsley, and Herman Cain as Thing; i.e. all Hand!.
Jack, Rick Perry like G W Bush is a product of oil money gushing through the election process . Perry rides the Country like it was the West Texas back country. Yippie Ki Yo can't speak, is a disastrous debator, goes on camera if taking a breathalizer test and knows the only good Mormon is one confined to Utah. Perry wants Texas to withdraw from the Union. Now thats a "withdrawal HE can be proud of! "!
Yes, Jack, he needs to go. Despite being a Democrat, I actually sympathized with his brain freeze and I don't think forgetfullness is the reason he should go. Instead, it is his inability to express cohesive plans to save the economy or to put together a cogent speech unless it is a down-home collection of generalities about God, country and how to be more successful in Texas due to his genius.
Well now you know the Rick Perry we've had to put up with for too many years in Texas. Of course, he should get out of the race, but his ego won't let him admit failure. He has no clue about debates or governing. He wouldn't even debate his Democratic opponent in the last gubernatorial race. Most of the time he just doesn't show up. He did debate Kay Bailey Hutchinson and a Tea Party candidate in the last gubernatorial primary. The verdict was that he finished third in the three person debate.
Yes please, everytime he opens his mouth or I see him standing on a stage with that stance in which he shows that he thinks, I'm a legend in my own mind, I get that sick feeling I use to get when george bush would make a public appearance. I don't care where he goes, as long as it's away!
Dave from NH.
Jack,
It's obvious Mr. Perry never should have begun his campaign. While he might be known as a shrewd polical operative, as he was during the Gore campaign, it's been obvious he's never been in it to win it. His debate performances have been abysmal, ranging from looking like he was going to fall asleep to last night's obvious gaff of showing up to a gunfight with a knife. He is clearly unprepared and seems happy to stay that way. His next step; hire Palin's ghostwriter and go on a book tour.
Good thing Perry didn't propose to dump five departments like Ron Paul has. Would have taken the whole 2 hours for him to get that list out right. But it's his call on withdrawing. Free country. So long as he's got the poll numbers to keep him eligible, it's his option. Which begs the question: When are they going to start dumping the <5% hangers-on?
Jack, along with the rest of the extreme right wing of the Republican Party, or the extreme left wing of the Democratic Party, he should never gotten into the race in the first place. I'm more qualified to be president than almost all of the current candidates put forth by the GOP. None of the above in 2012 is my choice.
Good riddance. Please go away, Rick Perry! It is doubtful that God actually called you to do this anyways! You're likely delusional!
Absolutely. He should have never entered the race to begin with. Bravado is not the only qualification one needs for President. And, by the way, Perry's "aw shucks" doesn't work with anyone who has a brain here in Texas either.
YES. I would really like a Republican to win. I would like to ask Perry, Cain, and Bachmann to please exit the stage to your left.
Really? Perry is clueless, but certainly not any more clueless than that empty suit, Obama. We are all aware of Obama's 57 states remark, but where is that 58th state he was going to visit next? Where is ONE article Obama wrote during his 12 year tenure as a professor of Constitutional Law? And how many times did Obama NOT vote 'present' as a Senator? Yes, Perry is clueless, but since when do millionaire, boobtube bobble-heads disqualify anyone from The White House because of cluelessness? LOL!
If there was ever a time to exit stage left its now. The Republican circular firing squad claims another victim.
He needs to go. I believe people make mistakes, get nervous but we have a list of issues we need to resolve in our country right now and the President needs to be on top of it.
It is time for politics to go. It's all just a sham anyways.
Your question is too limited. It should have been: "Is it time for Rick Perry and the rest of the Republican field not named Mitt Romney to withdraw from the presidential race?"
Lets face it, he had lots of "help" getting through school. How does the saying go?> "dumber than a box of rocks"?
Yikes, so much for the best and the brightest seeking the most powerful position on the planet.
Jack, If Rick Perry was the answer, what fool asked the question? I'm a Texan and I'm just sayin.
Perry is like the embarrassing relative that doesn't know when it's time to go home. He thinks he's the life of the party but the truth is you feel sorry for him so you feel bad about telling him to go home. He's the slow child of the Republican party that everyone calls "special" and what a good boy he is but would you let him dress himself let alone run the most powerful country in the world? Romney is the tortoise in the race and he'll win because he's the least embarrassing option.
These clowns, on both sides of the political spectrum, are the BEST we have to vote for? Gracious. I always thought that the President was the "smartest" man around. With these loons there is no question that most people are now smarter than the (a) current president or (b) and anyone that will be elected from this sad group.
Jack,
The time for Gov. Perry to drop out came and went after his "interesting" show in New Hampshire a week or so ago. Last night was an unmistakable beacon that he is way out of his league. Let this also be a rallying point for our country to declare a moratorium on TX Governors running for President for at least 40 years (the lone star state needs to present a lengthy track record of intelligent leadership after the last two entrants).
Rick Perry may not be the brightest bulb in the bunch but, none of the Republican candidates have anything to offer us in the grand scheme of things. Sure, Newt has bright moments and Paul is certainly a very sharp tack but none of them have any answers for the economy, nor the grace to be a world leader, nor the ability to and willingness to put aside partisan tactics and actually govern. Perry is a buffoon, no doubt but, haven't you watched Cain and Bachmann? Arrogance and ignorance are the calling cards of the Republican party and the ONLY thing I look forward to next November is watching Barack Obama decimating these 1%'er idiots that are not worthy of further darkening our White House door.
For all practical purposes he already has... it will just take him a while to see it himself and make the withdrawal official...
Mr. Cafferty,
Actually, I hope he wins the Republican nomination. Barak Obama would eat this rodeo clown alive. They weren't kidding when they said he made Bush seem intelligent. He reminds me of Howdy Doody the puppet only no one is holding his strings.
C. Magallanes, Pasadena, Calif
The gaffe just underscores his poor debate skills but his real nemesis is his whacked out ideas on how to govern the country. I could care less the guy had a senior moment but Rick Perry is nothing but a good ol boy towing the tea party line of distorted views of governance. Rick Perry Will cause more problems for America because politically he is intellectually inferior and less intelligent than the current president and quite a few world leaders. America cannot afford to elect a man that has no vision beyond the state of Texas.
He is not presidential. He does not have the ability to speak well under pressure. He should not be even considered a likely choice regardless of how much money he has collected. We need a President who can stand up and speak articulately and remember where he was going while he was speaking! To lose your way in the middle of a reply is pathetic. Too bad the GOP has such a lousey group to chose from. The only decent choice is Romney, but Romney won't be able to win.
It is time for him to go. The country is still reeling from the damage done by our last dimwitted Texan president and we certainly can't afford another one. Frankly, I think that Pres. Obama would blow this guy away in a national presidential debate if Perry managed to get nominated. It looks like the GOP is going to have more of a problem fielding a candidate than anyone ever imagined.
Perry never belonged. Anyone that can stand up their and say they'll balance the budget by 2020 is sick. We need balance now. Not to mention his Texas budget has a huge debt build up, and he has absolutely no record of being able to do it.
Candidates like Ron Paul need more attention, because he is the only one up their with professor attitude and leaves emotion out of the policies.
Jack – the mere fact that Governor Perry is still in the race is the very reason he should not be considered for President of the United States. A small, objective look at facts punctuates a simple truth: Governor Perry carries no credentials of value that justify occupancy of the White House.
Jack, I'm from Texas and never once voted for this Governor and he has been serving for 10 years. The GOP is hell bent on making President Obama a one term president and if it's Rick Perry, then that's okay with them. I think not, but it's up to the voters.
As a long-time Texas resident, I ask that the media and the RNC keep Perry on the campaign trail and out of my adopted state for as long as feasible.
If fools still want to continue sending money to his campaign then, well...........Oops. Oh ya, a fool and his money are soon parted.
Jack,
There have been enough public appearances by Perry and Bachman to reasonably conclude that neither of these candidates have the gravitas, presence, or common sense to hold the highest office in the land. Self-deprecating humor is a noble quality in a candidate and no one wants a stuffed shirt in office either. But there is a line that has been crossed (and not crossed meekly) and so he and Bachman need to bow out graciously in favor of others who may stand a better chance in the general election next year (like Huntsman).
Remember the last presidential candidate that was a Governor of Texas? 'Nuff said!
Is that a rhetorical question? Of course, he should be packing – and then Cain. Not so much for the sexual harassment charges as for his not knowing China is a nuclear power and has been for more than 50 years.
Is is the water in Texas, or what? The only difference between Rick Perry and George W. Bush is this: I wouldn't even want to have a beer with Rick Perry.
Yes Jack it's time for Perry to go. This nation needs someone that can think while strings together sentences beyond that of his religious faith or that he is on a mission from god. So yes its time for him to go.
Perry has been one of the worst governors in Texas history. It was time for him to go the minute he entered the race. This debate performance should show the rest of the nation the true perry. Hopefully America can forget about him... Too bad those of us in Texas can't.
Shoud Rick go away? Hell, yes. I find it hard to believe that a George W. Bush clone has gotten this far after the eight years of lunacy we suffered under the previous administration. It's hard to find a P.T. Barnum quote that doesn't appy to the madness of Perry's candidacy–or to the entire GOP line-up for that matter.
He should step down but he won't because his huge Texas ego won;t permit it. We can only hope that if he becomes the Republican President of the United States, his brain won't freeze up permanently.
This is all contrived and part of his strategy. Don't you see how he is now relieved of his earlier gaffe? Now, he is personnable. The man is not dumb. You watch, with the bar set low, he will climb his way back to the top within 2 months.
No Jack, he and all the other candidates should at least stay in the race until all the debates are finished, because watching him and the other nitwits make fools of themselves with gaffes, goof-ups, untruths on TV is some funny stuff. And I say it’s funny, not scary, only because none of them could seriously beat Mr. Obama anyways; so let’s just sit back and enjoy the circus.
Yes Jack. It's time for Perry to go. It was time for him to go the moment he announced his candidacy. He's like George W. Bush but with a 1/4 of his I.Q.
Is it too late for somebody with intelligence, forsight, wisdom and a true passion to serve the country to step forward? I'd be willing to knock on Colin Powell's door and ask him to once again serve his country...
Little Ricky should not have been in the race to begin with. His intellect is lower than that of the previous Texas governor. And we know how low that was. How low can you go, Texas?
As a lifelong Texan and Republican, I don't think that Mr. Perry should run and hide. He is the greatest presidential candidate this country has ever seen.
-Shlomo Wiesenthal, Texarkana TX
First of all, Jack, it was Ron Paul, not Mitt Romney, who offered the EPA suggestion. At any rate, it's been time for Perry to go for a while, but this one takes the cake. He can't remember 3 things? That's not a lot of things.
Lee, Redmond WA
This may be the best thing for Perry although he may not get elected, he'll certainly know more about our government than before in case he decides to run again.
Yes. It is apparent that he is an intellectual lightweight, managed by a team of advisors who probably spend most of their time slapping their foreheads.
I'll give him the benefit of the doubt, he was in front of cameras broadcasting to millions. Maybe it was the pressure and anxiety that goes with the debates that caused him to have an Alzheimer moment. However, he needs to go because he wants to get rid of the Departments of Eduction, Energy and Commerce, that is just plan buts.
Perry still has my vote! Obama has great debate skills and this country is going down quickly. I reference job record before debate.
let him stay in, hell the entire Republican field is a bigger bunch of clowns that Ringling Brothers has right now, we all could use some levity in these times, I honestly can't believe anyone but complete morons or Gov Perry's cronies ( yeah tht is a bit redundant isn't it?) are seriously considering voting for the buffoon
Yes. It was time for him to leave the minute he got in. I'm a republican and he embarrasses me.
The three agencies thing was, clearly, just conservative candidate rhetoric. "Blah, Blah, Blah, reduce government." That's why he couldn't remember them. It's not something he's given much thought to. While the big loser last night was probabaly Perry, let's hope it was also "rhetoric" politics.
Yes, it is time. This man has repeatedly shown he is not ready to play with the big boys. Electing him would demonstrate to the world that the United States has fallen to third world status. He is ignorant about foreign policy; has no idea how to improve the economy; and thinks his religion makes him Presidential material. He also takes his orders from the oil industry. THIS is a man we want in the White House?
Jack,
The Department of Education just showed little boys and girls why school matters. The sign at 1600 Pennsylvenia Avenue should read, "you need to be able to count to three to enter these gates." That will keep Perry out.
Its time for Rick, Ron, Cain, and the rest of these clowns to exit stage right.
Eric R.
Parkville, MD
We do not need another President with the mentality of George W. Bush. Perry is not presidental calaber. Oops = Out with you Perry.
We already had 2 republican texan presidents destroy our country nationally & internationally. Americans should have learned their lesson by now.
Yes, thinking so. We already had one of these presidents for eight years and we'll be digging out of that mess for fifty more. On the other hand he does have some entertainment value but the Reps are overstocked that way so they can afford to lose one for the gipper.
Time for the real candidates to get a boost, like Ron Paul! Rick Perry tried to get a bail out from Ron Paul but Ron Paul does not give bailouts.
He seems a few fries short of a happy meal to me. I don't think he is presidential material.
Edward from Montreal, Canada.
He Definetly needs to withdraw from the presidential race. I als think Texans need to rethink about electing him as governor again.
I have 2 college degrees and there are times in the middle of a conversation when the idea or train of thought goes completely away. Leave it to the medical people to explain why these lapses occur. I have an IQ in the gifted range so the fact that these lapses occur have nothing to do with intelligence. Actually, it may be quite the opposite – the intelligent person has so many thoughts going on at once that it may be easy to lose track of one.
That being said, if Gingrich or Santorum had such a lapse, it wouldn't amount to much. What hurts Perry is that he's been coming across as an intellectual lightweight since he entered the campaign and also has a reputation of not being the brightest star in the sky. For this to happen to him was the wrong thing at the wrong time to the wrong person.
What made matters worse was how he handled it. When these lapses occur to most of us, we just shrug it off and laugh at ourselves. By looking at his notes, Perry came across as someone who is unable to remember anything unless it is written down. Just like Obama needs his teleprompter, Perry needs his notes.
They say the light bulb burns brightest just before it burns out. It's seems like Perry's light never came on at all.
I give both him and Cain about 2 weeks before their embarrassments mercifully come to an end. Afterwards, with Romney, Paul, Gingrich, and Santorum still standing, you may begin to see some substance to the dialogue.
Rick Perry has became an embarrassment to the political process. We have too many issues to be sidelined by his carnival approach to running for the highest office in the country.
Go? Are you kidding? He needs to stay. He is just too much fun. I can't wait to see what he steps in next!
If Rick Perry exits the campaign now, who will replace him as the intellectual light weight and buffoon in the Presidential race?
It is too much fun seeing Perry make a fool of himself. Please do not encourage him to exit the race yet.
Well, if not knowing stuff is going to be the criteria for leaving, then there's a bunch of them that should go.
Perry should withdraw, but a lot of people have invested a lot of money in him and that might compel him to keep going. But he won't get anywhere near the Republican nomination.
It seems to me that as a bare minimum, our leaders should be able to express themselves intelligibly. Gov Perry seems unable to do so on anything like a consistent basis, and it time for him to gracefully withdraw from the race.
I am not sure if Rick should resign, as dumb as he is, he is still smarter than W Bush ever was and with the exception of Mitt, the rest of herd should sent out to pasture. Hang in there Rick, we need more of you for the late night talk show hosts to joke about.
I am tired of Texas politics and politicians.......we have had enough of them to last a lifetime!!!
Whether they all withdraw or not, the country does not need a Republican in office. It seems their goal is to punish working people because they have jobs.
Voters don't need to elect a candidate just to give him/her the power that comes with the office? We already have enough of the lunatics in other positions as it is, and we don't need to rush the complete failure of this country by repeating past mistakes.
Perry's gaffe just shows the degree of thought put into his plans to cut government. It is clear from his inability to even remember the name of the agency he wants to get rid of, that he spent little time thinking about these agencies, what they do, how they impact peoples lives and what value they are to the American people. CUT CUT CUT makes for a great bumper sticker, apparently it is now evident that a bumper sticker level of thought is all that has gone into policy plans.
As for your question, after seeing a few debates and media interviews, I am convinced that everyone in the GOP field, with the exception of Mitt Romney and Jon Huntsman, is unfit for the role of President of the United States. It's time for Rick Perry, and a few more, to go.
(From Edison, NJ)
Jack, I'm beginning to think that Perry cut some kind of deal with Romney to run the worst campaign possible. The worse Perry looks the better Romney looks so as to be accepted by the GOP. With the troop of candidates the GOP has it might have been better for them to not even run a candidate in this election.
If he truly loves Texas, he will withdraw immediately! He is embarrassing the state.
I agree one hundred percent, its time for Perry to say "SO LONG" The last thing this country needs in the white house is another Texan.
Noway LOL..This is not a serious mistake or crime..he cannot withdraw or go before Romney(flip flopper mistakes) and Cain(we know the recent story) and Finally Obama(for all the mistakes made during his presidency and did nothing except killing Bin Laden). Debate is like SOP TV who acted and remembered their dialouges they win debate only but not necessarily a great president.. We seen Obama didn't We?
You know Jack, all of this hoopla could have simply been avoided if Rick had only learned to scribble the answers on his hand like a proper Republican candidate.
This is the Rick Perry we've known for years in Texas. Nice to see the rest of the nation getting a good taste.
If Rick Perry has the money and wants to continue he should do so. Its better to have as many voices/choices as possible in the discusssion for a while longer. Once the voting starts in Iowa, NH, SC, etc, then let's let the voters decide not the media or the most recent polls which we know change alog.
This is why it is good that running to even be the nominee for president has to be a searching and intensive process. It takes candidates out of the conceit of thinking they can run the country amd puts them through an endurance test that refines the best candidates and exposes their weaknesses.
As much as I would like to be rid of our joke of a Governor, I would not want the rest of America to have to deal with this meathead. His inflated ego got him in the race. Unfortunately, that same ego will keep him there, at least for a few months. Can you imagine anything worse than a Perry/Palin ticket? Maybe Perry/Bauchman.
Jack,
I live and work in Texas but, not by choice; at the moment, Texas has the best job possibilities of anywhere in the US. However, most are demanding positions for 1980's compensation; absent of medical benefits – and among the worst Workers' Compensation laws in our country. We also have the most poverty and uninsured/under-insured throughout the nation. It has been time for Rick Perry to resign both his presidential aspiration and his Gubernatorial position. At my first opportunity – I'm gone.
Jack:
The Republican Party caucus and primary voters are going to have the final say. I predict he will be out of the race by the end of January. When Perry announced he was running, people from Texas said he made George W. Bush look smart. I thought at the time that couldn't be true, but he is proving it every time he steps on the debate stage. It's really looks like he has no idea what he's saying and sometimes when the cameras are not on him and you can see him past another candidate, he looks either bored or has no idea what is going on. Either way, my prediction is he's out of the race by the end of January.
When I see candidates like Perry fumbling their way through these early stages of our election process, it seems clear to me that they have no ability to run this country and should not even be in the running. I wonder how they would feel if they saw someone else doing and saying what they are. My guess it they would firmly believe that person had no place even thinking of governing this country. We give even the lowest paid positions in corporate America tests to determine whether they can meet the most basic requirements of available jobs. Shouldn't we do the same for the person who will hold the safety and welfare of an entire nation in their hands?
Rick Perry was never in the race, anymore than Bachmann or Cain. This is just the GOP, unhappy with their fallback frontrunner, Mitt Romney, testing the waters with every Tom, Dick and Mary; all of whom are happy to cooperate because in the end it will lead to a book deal or a job on the propoganda channel that likes to pretend they're a news network.
Perry probably would have bitten on "defense" if someone had suggested it. Defense is probably one of the five agencies Ron Paul would eliminate. Run with it Jack.
No wonder Rick Perry wants to get rid of education... He probably secretly wish to bring your whole nation down to his intellectual level.
I say keep him, I can't wait to watch his debate with President Obama. Seriously Jack, like you say the guy is dangerous, he is the type to get the nuclear launch codes mixed up and attack the United States of America.
By the way I'm I the only one to notice how much he reminds me of George W bush. It must be a Texas thing...
Lorraine Krupa
Montreal, Quebec, Canada
it seems the republicans want americans to have a short term memory americans delt with 8 years of bushisms... another texan george w bush was as we remember got us into this mess borrowing money for the wars borrowing money for a perscription drug program then if your remember changed the bankruptcy laws in 2005 as if they knew this mess was coming also outed a cia agent and to add insult to injury ordered torture......and remember he got re-elected......so we cant win.....
Please Jack, Obama said he campaigned in all 58 states during his presidential campaign! We have an intellectual flyweight in the White House today, a lightweight would be a move up in class!
No. Perry is admittedly not a great debater, but he still is an effective governor, and a viable candidate.
It's is time for Perry to go....Imagine the frustration we got from Reagon when he answered every questions over Iran Weapon scandle? "I don't recall..." Well, Perry just demonstrated that his early stage of FORGETFUL...hey it would only get worse...as day goes by...
OUT YOU GO, PERRY.
I never thought I would say this, but George Bush must be the :"Smart Texan". Wow. My 3 year old makes more sense than Perry does.
I think Rick Perry should be forced to make a series of commercials hawking solar power as well as other clean energy alternatives. It'd be a far greater way for him to spend time than to run for a presidency he probably wouldn't be able to understand.
Absolutley It Is Jack Cuz I For Don't Want To See Someone Running Our Country And They Can't Even Remember What There Talkin About In The Debates! Governor Perry You Looked Like An Absolute Fool Last Night In Michigan And You Should Be Embarressed, You Want To Do Away WIth Things But You Can't Even Remember What It Is You Want To Get Rid Of, Really Are You Serious Republicans? Rick Perry And Several Other Of The Republican Candidates Can And Must Go Now Including Newt Gingrich, Herman Cain, Jon Huntsman, & Rick Santorum!!! Let's Get This Thing Over WIth Now And Nominate Mitt Romney As The Republican Nominee And Watch Him Get Beaten By President Obama Next Year!
Scott Stodden (Freeport, Illinois)
Perry drop out? WHAT? NO!
He, Cain and Bachman provide useful counterpoints to the informed and well-prepared candidates.
Yes - he's long overdue. Send the Limo to Nowhere for Perry and Cain. We don't need a member of a national debate team as a president. But we DO need someone who can remember what his programs are. Here comes Reagan all over again!
What do you mean time to go?? Perry;s already "gone, gone gone", so is CAIN.
What a sad commentary on this country that a man with the intelligence of a fruitfly (no offense to the flies of the world) is even being considered as presidential material. Makes me want to cry.
As a life-long Austinite (notice I dont say 'Texan') I can't be happier that Perry has made such a fool of himself. Embarrassment on the world-wide stage may be just what we need to rid ourselves of this clown. It would be terrific if Perry somehow pulled off the nomination because that would ensure an Obama landslide...if only we were so lucky.
"Momentary Memory Loss" - I understand it. But don't tell me Presidents get all the sleep they need either!
OH NO, he shouldn't go away. Where would SNL get their material? This whole Republican slate of candidates defies logic and reason. They are the laughingstock of the world.
What should be truly disturbing is not that Gov. Perry is not presidential material – there are plenty of state officeholders no better or worse than Perry. What is disturbing is that a large fraction of the Republican base apparently considered him their preferred candidate without bothering to consider his obvious weaknesses and unsuitability at the national level. Before that it was Michelle Bachmann – another fringe candidate – and now it's Hermann Cain. These are the people who will demand a large voice in running the country should any GOP candidate prevail in 2012. And that's truly scary.
Jack, you ask, "is it time for Perry to withdraw?" It was never time for him to enter, so anytime has been time for him to leave.
Is it time for Rick Perry to withdraw from the presidential race? Yes. And Herman Cain. And Michele Bachmann. And Rick Santorum. And New Gingrich. It's a clown car that embarrasses not just Republicans but all Americans.
yeah, the Perry campaign is "faltering," the Romney campaign will "win" the honor of getting crushed by Obama in 2012 ...
and in 2016, 4 years from now, Perry will "learn how to be a better candidate" and be in a position to contest for the open 2016 race.
At which point Romney, who is probably the most deserving of all the GOP candidates to be president, will be forced either not to run or run for the third time with added baggage of being the guy who lost big to Obama in 2012...
Well yeah! I don't understand why people like Sarah Palin and Rick Perry are even allowed to be in the race in the first place. They are not articulate, they are not able to provide any suggestions on the problems the country is facing, and they just sling mud on other candidates instead of focusing on why they should be elected. Perry was never the frontrunner in my opinion. Romney is the only candidate in the current Republican primary that is worth his salt to stand for 2012 elections.
Jack,
Perry never wanted to run. He's the product and victim of republican mob mentality. Remember that he only joined the race after republicans determined that none of their candidates was strong enough to compete with Obama. So they pumped up their favorite son from Texas with money and fanfare to join the race. And now to their regret, he ain't worth the shoes he wore last night.
Heck, no. Everyone has brain pharts. Don't know if I'd vote for him but I'd rather have him over a man who clearly disrespects women or another man who's wooden and bland like Muenster cheese.
Jack,
It's absolutely time for him to go. I've watched most of the debates and he rarely (if ever) answers the question that has been asked. He gets a question on health care and he talks about taxes. He's asked about immigration and he talks about guns. What happens if he becomes president and a world leader asks him about peace in the Middle East? He can't start talking about Texas BBQ and expect everything to be okay.
Brian
The entire Republican field is an embarrassment. Obama must be loving it.
I'm not sure how the man could embarrass himself and his party any more then he's already done. I mean – he is not a serious candidate in any sense of the word. And his gaffs, inept debating skills and lack of knowledge on just about any issues only furthers the idea that the GOP is made up of a bunch of loons and feather weights. I mean... oops? Seriously?
It is not time, it is past time for Perry to depart the campaign. We need someone with more than the dry, stale Republican talking points. So far there aren't any Republicans running that are electable.
On a good day maybe he should, but considering that Bachman, santorum and cain are still giving it a go, i say he should hang in there and try his luck, the primaries voters might not be listening to the debates
Burbank, Ca
I am ashamed to see someone so stupid on TV running for the high office of the President. Rick Perry should not be allowed to be in the debates anymore or at least not on television, this questions the intelligence of our government around the world.
Yes, I don't think he has a grasp of what is required to be President and handle the pressure. You cannot rely on advisors for everything and must have a strong understanding of what is needed to succeed in the most important job in the free world. This is why Cain will never go any place except to sell more books for his book tour. He needs to back out today.
Yes Jack it is long past time for Perry to go. He did not have my vote from the beginning and will never have it.
This guy should never have gotten into the race. If this is the best the Republicans can come up with, they don't stand a chance next November. It's stunning how many people actually think this man should be president of the most powerfull country in the world.
Perry has no business being anywhere close to the White House let only running it. He is inept in every sense of the word, and would be nothing but a force of destruction if he were given the reigns of the country.
Jack, sadly, Perry and the rest of this silly group of candidates are the product of the Tea Party influence. This says everything about the Tea Party.
Dean
Duncan, BC Canada
Jack, of course not. There's months and months of more comedy gold to be dug out from Perry. Give the folks at SNL a few more easy skits to perform. I do love Perry's self-aware idiocy though. He actually is starting to grow on me. I'd definitely like to hang out and give him a beer while he mows my lawn.
Well past time for Perry to go. We've learned not to trust southern male politicians who spend a lot of time on their hair.
Is this supposed to be funny? I find it insulting. You are going to insult my intelligence as a voter? Get lost.
As a native Texas and resident of Austin I long ago had my fill of Rick Perry as Govenor and think he never should have had the gall to think he a Presidental material. Oh wait, I nearly forgot, he was told by God to try the Presidental gig. He clearly does not have the intellect to be a world leader or Commander-in-Chief of the United States military. Many can fly a jet, but few can command. I am hoping his Presidental bid ends here. He is good had accepting the hand-off of donations, shooting coyotes, and grinning. Like Bill Clinon said "he is a handsome rascal". I would emphasis the rascal part. Now that he "stepped in it" I am hoping we in Texas can put him on the unemployment list in the next election. Really don't want any more of his stuff wiped on us.
Perry was never ready for prime time. His out-sized Texas ego must have overridden whatever common(?) sense he might have had. . . .
Time for him to go?? He should NEVER been there. The man is not smart enough to be President.
No, because American Idol isn't on and the Republican debates are the best reality-tv shows to watch!
Of course it is, but keep in mind that the only reason Perry got in was because of the dimbulb quality of the field. Huntsman is the only credible candidate and he's polling at one or two per cent.
In a word, yes. Actually that time was when the world learned of his shenanigans in Texas. Remember "dead peasant insurance on Texas retired teachers?" or, "the Trans-Texas Corridor," or, "failing to halt the execution of an innocent man based on the findings of his own investigators," or, "in state tuition for illegal aliens," or, Oh for God's sake, need I go on?
GOP needs to get some real candidates with real ideas, not just bumper sticker slogans. This guy is like Kim Kardashian or Paris Hilton, nice to look at (politically speaking) but ain't nothing to it.
Common on... I am not a Perry supporter but lets get real. Obama didn't know how many states are in the USA, said he didn't speak Austrian and can't pronouce Marine Corps... and you guys said nothing, So the guy forgot, like no one has ever done that befroe? Get fair!
Perry was the candidate 'de jour." Looked good, made the right sound bytes for his ultra-right base, but as with Palin, Santorum, Cain, Bachmann 'ad nauseum,' he finally demonstrated he has no in depth understanding of problems and solutions. Like it or not, Romney will be the cnadidate next year.
Jack: Rick Perry is the equivalent of the country bumpkin who goes to the city! He can't play in that arena. He must return to TX where the rest of the country bumpkins reside. Time to roll up those saddlebags and leave the presidential race. He is an embarassment.
Time for him to go?? He should NEVER been there. The man is not smart enough to be President.
This comes from Holt, Missouri
He is my governor, for whom we are really proud. It is not about debate but about leadership and heart.
Not yet. Perry's continued buffoonery is an essential element of the farce known as the Republican Party primary. This is the best reality TV show of the season.
He should drop out and stop embarrasing us in Texas. We found out for sure that one candidate isn't smarter than a fifth grader!!
He need to get on his horse and ride into the sunset
Is Romney really that bad for the base ?
Why is it even a question?
This guy makes Ms Pailin look brilliant ! I am a liberal and should shut up now. Let's go Rick !
He should drop out of the race. We need our best and brightest, not this sort of mediocrity.
The top job in the country required someone with the capacity to command. And killing off three departments of government is a serious decision. If Perry can't even recall which ones he wants to remove, he's just not ready. What happens if he kills off one and later realizes he killed of the wrong one?! He's a hack who's own state is a mess – if he thinks voters will forgive this, he's just avoiding the obvious. It'll be clear come January if he doesn't figure it out.
Hahahaha this guy is another Republican joke. He is so conservative that he left his brains in the closet.
Perry was the candidate 'de jour." Looked good, made the right sound bytes for his ultra-right base, but as with Palin, Santorum, Cain, Bachmann he finally demonstrated he has no in depth understanding of problems and solutions. Like it or not, Romney will be the candidate next year.
Actually Jack, I think he should remain. Not as a candidate but as a reminder ... a reminder of just how serious the issues affecting our livelihoods are and that caustic, illiterate and unprepared politicians like Perry are not qualified enough to address them.
C In the South
Alpharetta, GA
Perry hasn't learned the true art of debates. Newt Gingrich learned a long time ago that the public will
believe a quick lie sooner than a slow or stumbled truth. But then again, what would this white-collar comedy tour
be without a combination of fast lies and slow response gaffes?
Jack, it makes me think that you are a little slow yourself for only now coming to the conclusion that Perry is not Presidential material.
I wonder if Romney deliberately suggested the wrong third agency? Just to see if Perry was dumb enough to bite–which Perry did. That would be wickedly clever.
I want Perry to stay. His nomination would go a long way toward getting President Obama re-elected.
Bill from Connecticut
I'm from Texas. We've witnessed Gov Perry put too stupid to be embarresed on display many times. It has actually worked effectively for him down here. I'm happy to see this being put on display nationally. Do you remember our previous governor?
I am prepared to see Perry run against Obama in 2012, Okay, whatever, if Cain's your man, that's okay too.
We're are already aware that the dummies best always come out from there for the most powerful position on earth but this time, we caught it very early and it's time to go. Perry it's time to go honorably.
If Perry wins, it will confirm that our system of electing leaders is broken. Hello, Canada!
All I can say is, "What a bummer". I have been there, and done that. Word block.
"Only those who continue to support Perry can decide this, surely when they realise there are much better investments to buy some shares, they'll switch!"
"This wasn't the first time you came off as an intellectual lightweight in these debates." Jack, try "anti-intellectual." The last one we had went to war based on Bad Intelligence. But even without the "oops" for number 3 - ABOLISH Departments of Education (take note that Texas is 49 on the last list I saw) and the Department of Commerce (because the banks will regulate themselves?) I'm sitting in a high rise looking at a good bit of Texas, and the toilet bowl scum hugging the horizon is something Perry is actually PROUD of. Yes. It is time for him to go. That this ill qualified bully-bubba Governor of Texas is being considered a viable candidate makes me shudder. Just like it did the last time.
" Is it time for Rick Perry to withdraw from the presidential race?"
No,it is not time because he never should have entered in the first place.
Or, put another way, yes, it was time from the moment he entered.
Perry was doing a seance channel of James Stockdale last night, that much is clear.
as judge Len said to Nancy Grace... You came to the ball as cinderella. It's midnight. Its time to to go home. Same for Rick Perry.
He seems to follow what our political system has become, a stinking side show. Smoke and mirrors and follow the bouncing ball. They need to quit trying to out quip the next guy and get to some serious business. Our country is no joke, our politicians are.
he should've been gone a long time ago and has no idea of what to say or do to run for President maybe he can do a comedy act on saying something and then forgetting what he is saying how is this thing a Governor !!!!!!! maybe he's trying to be another GWB he's from Texas too they saying everything is BIG yeah BIG IDIOTS !!!!!
Governor Rick Perry is reached beyond his abilities by joining this race. He has proved this time and time again with his closed-minded comments and debate debacles. He would be an absolute embarassment to this country as our representative on the world stage. He is unable to think on his feet and would only "step in it" repeatedly. For heaven's sake, he needs to go.
NO WAY... Rick Perry is a huge supporter of Israel. He fully understands that Jews are the chosen people of god. Thus, Rick Perry should remain in the race and hopefully become the next President of the United States. What many people do not understand is that Jews have helped America become the country it is, and if we want to remain #1, we must do more to help Israel.
Its been past time for Perry to go. The Rep party is looking very bad and Perry is doing his fair share. I don't know the reporters name that said that out of G. Bush and Perry, Bush it the smarter of the two. I see they where right.
Heck, after last night the Democrats are praying that Perry is their parties nominee. That way Obama would mop him up in any debate. He says God wanted him to run, but God hasn't helped him in any of the debates.. As a Conservative I was so embarrassed for Perry and agree with you Jack. Mr. Perry, if your watchung please step down.
It doesn't play well in Texas either. He's an embarrassment to the state.
Yes, it is time for all of these politicians to go away. Can someone give us some serious, independent, and untarnished problem solvers who will put the well-being of all – and I repeat all – middle-class American citizens first – before their own inflated self-interests. God Help America.
Trouble maker Jack – give it a rest. Obama makes the biggest gaffs of all when his Teleprompter is missing! Gaffing Biden another big goon. Who on earth doesn't make them?? Are you perfect? Why do you liberals insist on continually stirring up trouble?
Its time for all the republican canidates to go. They all have serious moral, intelect or experience short comings. Romney has the best chance but with his history of flipflopping how can anyone trust him to do what he sais he is going to do?
Mr. Perry is an intellectual lightweight – as you say, Mr. Cafferty. We already knew that. What really scares me is the fact that the average American voter is even dumber than Mr. Perry is.
Oh, let's elect another half-baked Texan to the highest office in the land. It worked out so well the last time!
Yes, that Thanksgiving turkey is done... sorry Rick. Now if Bachman, Santorum, Huntsman, and Paul could find the exit door, we could really make these debates effective; and find our leader in Romney, Cain, or Gingrich. There is too much at stake, and we have to stop giving Obama fuel for what is expected to be an ugly fight.
As a Democrat and a damn proud liberal, I hope both Perry and Cain remain in contention and one of them ends up as their candidate. That way POTUS can focus on the job at hand and wouldn't have to mount a campaign.
Hell No he needs to win and lead the gop! he is the poster boy for everything the party stands for and is the prototypical republican; blissfully unaware
Why he should go? Let him run. People will decide whether they need him or not.
It's been a long 'silly season' in the GOP nominating process. Do you think, Republican Party, we can get serious soon? Perry, Bachman, Gingrich, Caine, Santorum, please exit stage right.
Yes, Could you imagine him in the White House? That's just plain scary. After that performance, I was thinking about moving to Texas & running against him in the next Gubernatorial race. I know I could outdebate "that one".
I would have to say yes to that!!! The man is inept and easily rattled and I don't believe he even knows what he is fighting for. If the man is not competent enough to know and stick to his own talking points how can he expect anyone to take him seriously. Yet another fine example of an intellectual giant coming out of Texas politics.
Perry should also resign as Governor of Texas and the Human Race. He should find a Texas size rock to hide under. And I am a Republican............
Perry makes George Bush look positively erudite in comparison. As a lifelong Republican, I refuse to vote for another bantamweight intellect. Please, Texas: enough is enough.
Jack:
Let me ask a question: And this is the guy who signs off as to who gets to die or live in Texas? This calls for a very urgent review of all the cases involving guys sent to the other world. By the way, has Rick Perry any intellectual relation to that other woman from Alaska....what's her name? Let's see. OK. ahaaa Bachman....no...I mean Ooopps!
Kampala, Uganda.
his time to 'leave the race' was before he even started ... we can not have a president appointed by god or on a mission from god because inherently that means the church becomes the state and discrimination becomes policy ... oh wait ... it already is ...
Perry's campaign was over after he said God told him to run.
Yeah – it's time to stop running and go back to Texas. He just doesn't have what's required to run for the biggest office in the land. Can take some of the other less qualified folks went he boards the flight home.
Simply put, the President of the United States of America should be able to remember the three names of major gigantic government organizations that he wants to dismantle before he dismantles him. It's time to bow out.
Isn't it too early to have people dropping out? I thought it was crazy of Pawlenty to quite over a straw poll, which is not by any means statistically meaningful. I think that we should let the primary season weed out candidates, not their portrayal in by the media.
Way past time. This guy isn't real anyway. He's right out of Central Casting in Hollywood and he should take Hermie with him.
Happy trails Tex and Hermie.
Jack, It was time when he started talking about securing the borders with aircraft. All of these canidates are looney I don't care what you call me Anarchist, Socialist, Democrat, Republican, I am an American first and foremost and if we want to start making progress as a nation again we must face the basic questions assesing humanity. It may be retorict however, "What kind of world do we really want our children and grandchildren to grow up into?"
Jack,
Oh, yes. The President of the most powerful country on this planet, the leader of the free world, the person who directs the worlds largest economy, the worlds policeman, needs to be a whole bunch smarter, please.
Never deny anyone the opportunity to make an even bigger fool of himself.
Jack – When the American people decide that they no longer want a politician who is articulate and well-versed – in other words, someone they consider a Washinigton insider – they are going to begin to get what they asked for – someone who reminds us of the guy next door. Trouble is, the guy next door, whom we might like to have a beer with ,probably has no business running the most powerful nation on earth.
Simply put, the President of the United States of America should be able to remember the three names of gigantic government agencies that he wants to dismantle before he dismantles them. It's time to bow out.
Wow...it seemed like he was channeling his inner George Bush! Texas Govenors for president...been there...HATED that!
deeply committed to a philosophy that dictates the dismantling our american government but can't even recall what parts? that's not a brain fart, it's a fundamental lack of conviction, sincerity, authenticity.
Sorry, this man is an embarrasment to the Republican party. Please drop out, this type of candidate will hand the election to Mr. Obama
Time for him to go, but please, not back to Texas! I plan to return home soon and I really don't need to put up with a governor who chokes on a hairball.
Having a Perry moment..forgot to include where I am from.
I think he should stay in. I think it should be a Cain-Perry ticket. It will be the funniest thing to happen to politics in years (decades), and will virtually assure a landslide for Obama.
Hey the Alzheimers association could be looking for a new spokesperson. Something for Perry to consider after he drops out of the presidential race and lose the governorship of Texas.
Jack,
It's time for Rick Perry to go and it's time for a few other of the Republican candidates to go who are simply not up to the task of POTUS. If half the country is Republican, there MUST be better talent they can call upon. This group of candidates gets sadder by the day.
Jack, just where were you when Barack Obama said that he had visited all FIFTY-SEVEN states? Yeah, I didn't think so. Perry ain't goin' nowhare as we say down here in this part of the country, so just get over it.
Yes. He should go back to Texas. I'll give you three reasons why: He doesn't understand our immigration problems, he does not understand our financial problems and, uh, the other reason is, uh, what, where was I? Oh yah...it's the Democrats fault.
You know what Jack? I'm gonna tell you something right now. First off... Wait what's that first one there... Oops
Jack – YES it is!! I haven't liked him from the beginning(too much like "W") and while watching that gaffe last night all I could do was look at my Wife and say "stop the bleeding!"
No Jack, it was time for him to go the day after he was elected Governor of Texas. Unfortunately, Rick Perry is one of the few, who doesn't realize it.
long past time for him to get out of the race–he keeps demonstrating how unprepared and unqualified he is to be president. the same goes for cain, bachman. not a single repugnican is worth even consideratinof my vote.
It's time for all of them to go. They are a disgrace to the GOP! However it is time for Mitch Daniels to put on his big boys pants, tell the family to stuff it and throw his hat in the ring!
Jack, you and the rest of the CNN staff would be happy if ALL the republican candidates would just go away. That would lead to the coronation of Obama in 2012 and we'd be faced with another 4 years of disaster. For me, I would vote for the Aflack Duck if it ran against Obama.
Heck no Jack! Perry needs to keep going till the end, this stuff is priceless!
Jack....I was truly embarrased for Perry. I sat there with my mouth agape watching him fumble around...brutal ! But let's face it Jack ..is this current Republican lineup the best we have to choose from ??? We need a real player in the White House and Obama ain't the man but he has to be giggling to himself watching this lineup
Three reason why Rick Perry isn't ready to be President, 1, Not Presidential material, 2, Not smart at all, 3, I I I forgot, oops!
It is time for Perry to withdraw from the presidential race. I haven't seen a performance this bad since Quayle trying to spell potato.
Perry's ridiculous gaffe confirms exactly what I've always known about him: He's nothing but a politician. His "opinions" aren't reflective of his own thoughts or passions; they're simply lines written by campaign staff and speech writers. Last night, he forgot his lines and, therefore, had no opinion. Yes, he needs to go. He never should have entered in the first place.
Jack, It is absolutely time for Mr. Perry to hang up his bid for the White House and go back to Texas where he belongs. The people of Texas should be embarrassed and ashamed of this man as their governor. We, the American people, cannot afford to elect Perry as our president and risk being ashamed of him before the international community. He would be a laughing stock of the world and we would be seen as fools for electing him. We made this mistake with George W Bush. Please, let us not make the same mistake with Perry!!
If Rick Perry withdraws,there won't be any comical,please Rick hang on,we need more gaffes.
I'm just wondering if maybe there is a Texas law that requires their Governors to be a doofus.
Yes, he should just go away. He made us Texans look really bad.
When Rick Perry made his first nationwide appearance he began with a prayer revival and a Texas drawl so thick it stuck to your face, I knew at that moment he would never become the candidate for the GOP.
When I saw his grasping for a brain last night I laughed so hard I cried, he done, flip him over.
You would think that in a nation of some three hundred million people, a political party could come up with potential Presidential candidates that will not disappoint, disgrace, or embarass the rest of us
Ok so he has to resign because he had a brain fart and he isnt the smartest apple on the tree but an accused sexual harrasser can stay in the race??? Anything is better than what is in the office now! CAIN SHOULD RESIGN FROM HIS RACE IF PERRY DOES!!!
I guess the reason y'all didn't come down so hard on Sarah was that she was a woman, and good-lookin. Why in heck are you pickin' on Perry? He's not so dumb. After all, he can count to three.
Watching and hearing Gov. Perry speak is like pouring salt on an open wound.
Mitt Romney should leave the race for his depraved indifference to Herman Cain's sexual harassment.
Rick Perry's memory loss is getting equal attention to Herman Cain not being able to remember woman after woman after woman that he attacked? Yeah right.
Herman Cain should resign. Rick Perry should continue to run and WIN!!!
Debate skill is disassociated with success in the oval office. The White House has proven that.
No way. He is far to important to late night TV monologs. Keep him around for a while just for the entertainment value.
Yes, please let him go back to Texas and try and fix the mess he has created there| Enough with his foolishness – I am so ashamed for him. He needs to go away – so we can get on the business at hand\ trying to figure out how we can help President Obama created jobs and fix our broken country.
I do have to say that I am new to this whole political 'thing' but you would have to blind AND deaf to not know that Governor Perry has the educational capacity of a 6th grader. When you are campaigning to run the most powerful country in the world, you should NEVER use the word "oopps." As sad as Gov. Perry is, he will make a great bit on NBC's SNL.
Mr. File....you are ever so, ever right! Rick Perro (as my husband's family refers) is not presidential quality, president qualified, or or or let's see.....ummm, what's the third one...? oh! just flat out 'don't got it' –period! thanks for telling the truth and being forthright. love ya!