EXETER, N.H. (AP) — Texas Gov. Rick Perry is calling influential Republicans in early voting New Hampshire and Iowa, the latest indication that he's seriously considering a presidential run.
New Hampshire Senate President Peter Bragdon (BRAG'-dun) tells The Associated Press that Perry called him over the weekend to gauge his support and seek his thoughts on what might happen if he entered the race and "shook things up a little bit."
Perry also was making calls to GOP leaders in Iowa, which holds the first contest in the fight for the Republican nomination. He left a voicemail Sunday telling Iowa Lt. Gov. Kim Reynolds he looked forward to meeting her soon. Other Republicans were called, too.
Bragdon says Perry is doing his homework as he weighs whether to run.
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Associated Press reporter Tom Beaumont contributed to this report from Des Moines, Iowa.
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