Playing the "liberal media" card: Perry says 'media elites' to blame for painting him as racist

[pampango]

Texas Gov. Rick Perry suggested that "media elites" are trying to portray him as a racist in a controversy over a slur against blacks that was painted on a rock near the entrance of his family's hunting camp in Texas, according to a lengthy interview with the Republican presidential candidate published in the Des Moines Register.

I'm very proud of how we have dealt with the issue of racial diversity in the state of Texas, having appointed more qualified minorities than any governor in Texas history, including the first African-American to the Texas Supreme Court."

In the Register interview, Perry was also asked about a statement by his wife, Anita, who recently told voters in Iowa that her husband needed to work on his debate skills, which have proven to be a liability. He said he agreed with his wife, but, in a swipe at both his rival Mitt Romney and President Obama, said that people were looking for an "authentic" leader rather than "the smoothest politician or best debater."

The governor also continued to speak in vague terms when asked about his plans for Social Security, calling for a national discussion rather than offering specific solutions.

http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-503544_162-20119832-503544.html