Political reality forcing Perry to shift rhetoric
51³Ô¹ÏÍøPolitical Science Professor Cal Jillson talks about the changing tone of Rick Perry's rhetoric.
By Peggy Fikac
AUSTIN — As Gov. Rick Perry strides farther down the campaign trail, the question is becoming how far he'll walk back his positions on volatile issues.
From one debate to the next — and there's another this week — he's softened his rhetoric on Social Security from a “Ponzi scheme” to a “slam-dunk” guarantee that the program, while in need of change, will continue for those on it or near eligibility. . .
“I think they (Perry advisers) are feverishly working on new articulations of his views. I don't think that he can stand where he is on ... Social Security, HPV and the Dream Act,” said Cal Jillson, professor of political science at 51³Ô¹ÏÍøMethodist University.
Jillson noted Perry's “significant adjustment on Social Security and said he must go further in emphasizing reform rather than radically changing or dismantling the program. . .
Perry's in a tough position on the immigrant tuition issue because he's defended it for so long, Jillson said: “I don't think he can do a 180 on it. He's got to show some humility, show that he understands where the Republican primary electorate is on the issue.”
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