PERRY FOR CRUZ – AT 8:45 A.M. ET:  Former Texas Governor Rick Perry, himself a onetime presidential candidate, has endorsed Ted Cruz for president.  Cruz is, of course, a Texas senator.  From the Washington Examiner:

Former Texas Gov. Rick Perry has endorsed Sen. Ted Cruz for president.

"It's a great privilege to endorse Ted Cruz," Perry said on Fox News Monday morning of his home state senator, adding that he has "really gotten to know" Cruz over the past few months.

He's "probably one of the best listeners I've ever been engaged with on the political front," Perry said. "I am convinced from day one that this very committed conservative will be ready from day one to be commander and chief."

Perry also called Cruz a "principled conservative," who will stand up for an issue even if it isn't the popular one and has not compromised his views over time.

COMMENT:  Will the endorsement mean anything?  Endorsements usually don't.  But, if I were a candidate, I'd rather have endorsements than not have them.  Perry might have some influence in the Southwest, and with his extensive network of political pros.  He was, at one time, the longest-serving governor, and had a good record in Texas.

January 25,  2016