Perry says he could decide on presidential run by May

AUSTIN — Gov. Rick Perry, who has been deep in preparation for a second potential presidential bid, said Tuesday he’s unfazed by Jeb Bush’s edging closer as a candidate.

“I really haven’t been paying attention on whether someone’s in or out,” Perry said. “I’m not surprised that somebody wants to be president of the United States. America is longing for a very positive vision for this country, and if I decide to run, I’m going to give them that.”

In an interview with The Dallas Morning News, Perry said he expects to make his decision as early as May. For now, he’s winding down an unprecedented 14-year tenure as governor, the office he assumed after George W. Bush — Jeb’s brother — became president.

Jeb Bush, admired by the GOP’s establishment wing, disclosed Tuesday that he’s exploring a presidential run. His candidacy could increase tensions with party factions that favor harder-edged conservatives like Perry, Sen. Ted Cruz and others.

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