What is it with Texans and Rudy Giuliani?
First comptroller Susan Combs became his state campaign chair: now Texas Railroad Commission Chairman Michael Williams joins as vice-chair. But the big announcement came yesterday, when Gov. Rick Perry decided that “pro-choice East Coast politico” isn’t a term of abuse and formally endorsed the former mayor of New York in his run for president. Explained Perry, “I’m looking for a proven leader, who has been successful in disrupting, dismantling criminal enterprise, individuals that threaten our families and our way of life.”
Backing Rudy for the issues that might get out the Texas party faithful (low taxes, small government, border security), Perry steered clear of matters that may induce ire (abortion). Of course, there’s a theory that Giuliani has always had an eye on Texas support and Texas cash. Back in 2005, Giuliani joined Houston-based law firm Bracewell & Patterson LLP, which suddenly transformed into Bracewell & Giuliani LLP. His Texas connections have provided him with $4.7 million in campaign donations so far this year, almost double his nearest in-state rival John Edwards on $2.4 million.
But it seems that Perry may not have been following the talking points. “Our nation’s leader must be able to stare down the criminal element,” he said in his endorsement speech, “whether they’re trafficking in drugs or whether they’re planting roadside bombs.” Now, correct Chronic if he is wrong, but isn’t one of the key points of the war on terror that terrorists (traditionally classified as criminals and dealt with through the criminal justice system) are not criminals, but the nebulous and still ill-defined ‘enemy combatants’?
This article appears in October 12 • 2007.
