Texas Gov. Rick Perry gave remarks Saturday on a state jury’s decision to indict him for abusing his vetoing power on Friday saying that he stands by his decision and would fight the indictment, which he called a political farce.
“We don’t settle political differences with indictments in this country,” Mr. Perry said. “It is outrageous that some would use partisan political theatrics to up away at the very fabric of our constitution.”
Mr. Perry, who is rumored to be considering a bid for the 2016 presidency, said that he would explore every legal option to fight the indictment and said that the state constitution clearly outlines his authority to veto funding at his discretion.
“I wholeheartedly and unequivocally stand behind my veto,” Mr. Perry said.
The governor also gave remarks on his continued commitment to protecting the border in Texas where thousands of immigrants, many of them unaccompanied children, have illegally crossed into the United States this year.
Other lawmakers have chimed in on twitter to support Mr. Perry.
SEE ALSO: ‘Witch hunt’: Ted Cruz, Bobby Jindal rush to defend Rick Perry after indictment
Former Republican Florida Gov. Jeb Bush tweeted “The indictment of @GovernorPerry seems politically motivated and ridiculous. Major overreach and an encroachment on his veto authority.”
Sen. Ted Cruz, Texas Republican, and Louisiana Republican Gov. Bobby Jindal also stood up for Mr. Perry, with Mr. Jindal calling the indictment a “witch hunt.”
Mr. Perry was indicted Friday over allegations that he had abused his budget powers, threatening to veto funding to a district attorney’s office if the district attorney, Rosemary Lehmberg did not resign. Ms. Lehmberg was convicted of drunk driving. She was sentenced to 45 days in jail.
• Kellan Howell can be reached at khowell@washingtontimes.com.
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