Giuliani throws support behind Perry

AUSTIN (KXAN) - Former NYC mayor Rudy Giuliani campaigned with Gov. Rick Perry in both San Antonio and Austin. He praised the Governor for his efforts in combatting transnational drug gangs and defended criticism over the difference between his and Perry's stance on social issues.

Giuliani is more liberal when it comes to gay marriage and abortion, hot button topics for Texas conservatives.

"I think it's significant that the Governor is able to attract support from people of all different ideas and thinking because of the core ideas of fiscal responsibility, safety and security," said Giuliani. "This Governor has done a really excellent job."

Meanwhile, the Governor skirted the question, saying that is not what these public events are about.

"I'm betting that you can find a number of places where the mayor and I don't agree," said Perry. "He's probably for the Giants and the Jets. I'm not. that's not what we're here for today."

The Governor supported Guiliani in his run for president before the Republican primaries.

On the issue of transnational gangs, the Austin Police Department said the drug wars have infiltrated Austin. According to APD, Mexican drug dealers are looking toward local street gangs to get the drugs across the border.

Perry's presser didn't cover any new ground, but merely reiterated the resources that have been allocated to help fight gang activity in Texas. Both the Governor and Guiliani also blamed the Federal government for not making border security a priority.

When asked if he blamed Hutchison for the problems on the border, the Governor said there is a "long and distinguished list" of people who have been in "D.C. for 16 years and hasn't given us assistance."

As a response to Perry's tour about border security, Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison's campaign sent out a press release saying the Governor's border policies have failed.