Globetrotting Governor
AUSTIN – Gov. Rick Perry has crossed the deserts bare, man; breathed the mountain air, man; he’s been everywhere – visiting at least 11 foreign countries in the past three years as an emissary for Texas.
Thus far this year, he has spent 18 days in five countries – Qatar, Israel, Turkey, United Arab Emirates and Jordan. The plane fare for him and an aide to Istanbul cost $13,586, a tab picked up by political donors. But taxpayers pay the bills for his Department of Public Safety security detail, which always travels with him. DPS declined to say what that costs, citing security concerns.
Mr. Perry’s aides argue that with so many foreign companies doing business in Texas, the governor needs to promote the state for it to stay competitive in a global economy. But his penchant for international travel is unique among Texas governors, and Democrats have criticized the practice as special interest-financed vacations.
Also Online
Gov. Rick Perry’s foreign travels in recent years (.pdf)
And whether on a trade mission or policy retreat or delivering speeches in foreign lands, Mr. Perry has traveled well, generally staying in five-star hotels, flying in private jets or being pampered in business class seats.
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