Perry to Drop Out, Endorse Gingrich

Texas Governor Rick Perry has called an 11 a.m. press conference this morning in South Carolina. According to The Texas Tribune, KUT's political reporting partner, and other media outlets, Perry will use the event to drop out of the GOP presidential race and endorse Newt Gingrich.

Rumors were swirling last night on Twitter, as various news outlets and blogs were saying the governor was calling it quits after he canceled an appearance at Bob Jones University Wednesday afternoon.

But the campaign denied the rumors and Perry attended an anti-abortion forum sponsored by Personhood USA last night.

This morning the campaign sent out a short press release simply saying there would be a press conference in North Charleston, with no additional information.

The governor has been battling poor poll numbers and dwindling funds over the last couple of months. He finished 5th in the Iowa Caucuses and 6th in the New Hampshire Primary.

He's been barnstorming across South Carolina for the last two weeks, but his efforts have not moved him in the polls.

You can listen to Ben Philpott's audio report below.

Reports: Perry to Drop Out, Endorse Gingrich by KUT News