After weeks of speculation, a Texas Governor's Office spokesperson has confirmed that Rick Perry is running for U.S. President.
The Associated Press is confirming that Perry running for president.
Perry enters a crowded field for the Republican Party nomination.
The winner will face President Barack Obama during the November 2012 election.
Perry spokesman Mark Miner told The Associated Press that Perry will announce his intentions to run for the GOP nomination on Saturday.
The Texas governor is expected to visit the early primary states of South Carolina and New Hampshire over the weekend.
The governor's announcement that he's entering the race will come two days after a debate in Iowa.
The announcement also falls on the same day that his rivals participate in a test vote in Iowa, the leadoff caucus state.
Former Hidalgo County Republican Party Chairman Hollis Rutlege spoke to Action 4 News about the development.
Rutledge said he believes that a Perry White House victory would benefit the Rio Grande Valley.
Records show that Perry has appointed a number of Valley residents, including Rutledge's wife, to a number of state boards and commissions.
"He's been aware of the Rio Grande Valley since he was Texas Agricultural Commissioner," Rutledge said.
Action 4 News will provide more information as it becomes available.
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