Texas Governor Rick Perry announced he will not seek re-election during a news conference this afternoon (July 8) in San Antonio. Perry is currently the state's longest-serving governor.
Perry began his remarks highlighting the economic successes of the state, calling Texas “the new frontier for innovation in America today.”
"Texas Works. Jobs prove it. Revenue Proves it. The number of people moving here proves it. Texas works because we have less government," commented Perry.
Perry also referenced Texas's second special legislative session, which began on July 1. Perry called the second session to pass restrictive abortion regulations. The initial attempt was blocked through a filibuster by Democrat Wendy Davis of Fort Worth.
"Texas is and will remain a strong pro-life, pro-family, pro-freedom state," said Perry.
The Texas Senate Committee on Health & Human Services began a public hearing this morning on abortion procedures, providers and facilities. Over 2,000 people are expected to testify, and proceedings are likely to continue late into the night.
For more information on the abortion bills, Senate Bill 1 and House Bill 2, check out this Texas Tribune interactive feature comparing Texas's proposed abortion regulations with laws in other states.