Governor Rick Perry's Views on Government Intervention, Immigration, Social Security, and Presidential Ambitions

Texas Governor Rick Perry, the next chairman of the Republican Governors Association, was interviewed on MSNBC's "The Daily Rundown" on November 18, 2010, regarding his views on government intervention, immigration, social security, and his potential presidential ambitions. During the interview, Perry expressed his skepticism about government involvement in the private sector, citing the General Motors bailout as an example. He argued that the government should not be involved in saving private companies, as this would undermine the principles of the free market.

Perry also discussed his views on immigration, stating that he agrees with former President George W. Bush's position that immigrants are a sign of a successful nation. However, he emphasized that security is a major concern, particularly with regards to the violence and drug cartels along the US-Mexico border. Perry advocated for a more comprehensive approach to immigration reform, arguing that securing the border is essential before any discussion of reform can take place.

Furthermore, Perry criticized Social Security, describing it as a Ponzi scheme and a bad disease. He claimed that the program is unsustainable and will not be around for younger generations, as the ratio of workers to beneficiaries is too low. Perryalso stated that the federal government has an unfunded liability of $106 trillion in Medicaid, Medicare, and Social Security, which he believes needs to be addressed.

Lastly, Perry dodged questions about his potential presidential ambitions, stating that he is not interested in running for president and has been consistent in his denial. However, his book, "Fed Up," has been interpreted by some as a subtle hint at his presidential aspirations, particularly with regards to his mention of New Hampshire and its status as a no-tax state.

Key Takeaways:

• Governor Rick Perry expressed his skepticism about government involvement in the private sector, citing the General Motors bailout as an example
• Perry believes that the government should not be involved in saving private companies, as this would undermine the principles of the free market
• He agreed with former President George W. Bush's position that immigrants are a sign of a successful nation, but emphasized that security is a major concern
• Perry advocated for a more comprehensive approach to immigration reform, arguing that securing the border is essential before any discussion of reform can take place
• He criticized Social Security, describing it as a Ponzi scheme and a bad disease due to its unsustainable nature and high unfunded liabilities
• Perry stated that the federal government has an unfunded liability of $106 trillion in Medicaid, Medicare, and Social Security
• He dodged questions about his potential presidential ambitions, stating that he is not interested in running for president

Statistics:

• $106 trillion: the unfunded liability of Medicaid, Medicare, and Social Security
• 20-something-year-olds: Perry claims that this age group is aware that Social Security is not sustainable and will not be around for them
• 15 incoming Republican governors: Perry met with these governors in San Diego, discussing their 2010 wins and charting out the next steps for the party

Sources:

• MSNBC's "The Daily Rundown"
• Federal News Service, Inc.
• "Fed Up: Our Fight to Save America from Washington" by Governor Rick Perry