Dewhurst is leading in Republican primary polls over a field of rivals that includes former Texas Solicitor General Ted Cruz, former Dallas Mayor Tom Leppert and former football player and ESPN commentator Craig James.

Perry praised Dewhurst’s loyalty and said he was glad to return the favor.

“David’s been a loyal supporter of mine, and I, in turn, am a loyal supporter of him and his task to become the next United States senator,” Perry told Dallas TV station KTVT.