Gov. Rick Perry visited a Waco motorcycle and boat dealer Friday to accept the endorsement of the National Federation of Independent Business.

Perry used the event to continue making the case that’s been the central theme of his campaign since the Republican Party primary — that Texas’ economy is in better shape and is more business-friendly than those of other states.

Gov. Rick Perry accepts an endorsement Friday from the National Federation of Small Business at Marineland Waco Yamaha in Robinson. The store’s owners, Mary and Ken Sorley, look on.
Rod Aydelotte/Waco Tribune-Herald

“Entrepreneurs who risk their capital know that we have created a climate in this state where they can have a chance to have a good return on that investment,” Perry said.

Perry re-emphasized his intent to make sure next year’s state budget does not include any tax increases. The state faces a budget shortfall that some estimates put as high as $21 billion.

Ken and Mary Sorley hosted the event at Marineland Waco Yamaha, the business they started on South Loop 340 in Robinson in 1983.

Perry’s Democratic challenger, former Houston Mayor Bill White, has also played up his business background in the race.

White was a partner at Houston law firm Susman Godfrey and worked in the energy industry.

He met with the Greater Waco Chamber of Commerce in April and a recent television ad for White features testimonials from several businessmen.

mshapiro@wacotrib.com

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