Politics & Government

Perry: 'Shoot, I May Get to be a Good Debater Before This is All Over.' [VIDEO]

Rick Perry talks jobs, tax reform as he enters the New Hampshire Primary.

UPDATED

Texas Gov. Rick Perry officially entered the New Hampshire Primary on Friday, Oct. 28, becoming the last major presidential candidate to jump into the Republican race. 

He spoke with the media for about 20 minutes on everything from drilling for oil to his debate performance – he says he does not know if he will forgo any debates, as he seeks to reach voters in early primary states.

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"Shoot, I may get to be a good debater before this is all over," he said.

Perry said New Hampshire should be a "right-to-work" state to boost job creation. He touted his flat tax plan and defended his record on immigration issues in Texas.

Find out what's happening in Concordwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

As he wrapped up a news conference in New Hampshire Secretary of State William Gardner's crowded office, Perry dismissed what he called "gaping differences" in the polls. He said he was running to win the New Hampshire Primary and capture the GOP nomination.

Former , who has enjoyed big poll leads in the first-in-the-nation state, returns to New Hampshire for a town hall-style meeting Friday night. Ron Paul, who also enjoys support in the leadoff state, continues a swing through the state with another meeting. And Jon M. Huntsman Jr. is campaigning across the state over the next 72 hours.

Friday, Oct. 28, is the final day for presidential candidates to file to enter the New Hampshire Primary. The office closes at 5 p.m.


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