Texas Gov. Rick Perry announced Monday that he will not run again for governor, signaling that he could be gearing up for another run for president in 2016.
The Republican — the longest-serving governor in the state’s history — made the announcement during a rally in San Antonio with friends, family and staffers.
“Today, I am announcing I will not seek re-election as governor of Texas,” Perry said, after ticking off a list of accomplishments while serving as governor.
“I will spend the next 18 months working to create more jobs, opportunity and innovation,” he said. “ I will actively lead this great state.”
He added, “I will also pray and reflect and work to determine my own future path.”
Perry unsuccessfully ran for president in 2012. He dropped out of the race before the South Carolina primary, after his campaign failed to catch on.
On Sunday, Perry acknowledged that a 2016 run is an “option” he’s considering.