Player of the Week: Texas Gov. Rick Perry (R)

Texas Gov. Rick Perry (R) has taken hits from other White House hopefuls ever since he joined the presidential nomination race more than a month ago.

Rep. Ron Paul (R-Texas) attacked Perry on taxes, Rep. Michele Bachmann (R-Minn.) questioned his decision on HPV vaccines for children and ex-Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney has gone after him on Social Security and immigration.

{mosads}That’s what happens when you’re the front-runner to be the GOP’s leader. You have to show you can take a punch.

Perry has not exhibited an iron jaw. The result is that Romney is again regarded as the front-runner.

Perry last month was shaky during the GOP presidential debates, stumbling as he attempted to go on the offensive.

Then, over the weekend, The Washington Post reported that a hunting camp leased by Perry’s family was once called, “N—-rhead.”

The racial slur was painted on a rock on the property; there are varied accounts on how long ago it was painted over. 

What is clear, however, is that Perry’s campaign is faltering. The Hill reported last week that GOP kingmakers in Iowa say Perry’s support has softened.

The Perry campaign is like a sports team that needs to change its momentum. There is a growing sense with him that there are more surprises to come. Republicans and Democrats have said his record as governor is a treasure trove for opposition researchers seeking campaign ammo.

Romney is viewed as a safer pick, at least for members of Congress. He has the official backing of 21 GOP lawmakers, compared to Perry’s 10. 

After dropping out of the presidential race, Rep. Thaddeus McCotter (R-Mich.) endorsed Romney, saying that the former governor has “been vetted through one presidential race already.”

Every successful presidential candidate has hit turbulence. And it’s a true test of leadership to pick yourself up off the mat and fight back. 

If Perry doesn’t get up soon, his numbers will continue to fall.