Texas Governor may consider rejecting health care overhaul

Republican Rick Perry said he was "willing and ready" to stand up to a nationalized health care plan, like the one being debated by the U.S. Congress.

The stance taken by the Governor of the Lone Star State may just be the most outspoken defiance of United States President Barack Obama's health care overhaul plan being debated by Congress. Perry told conservative talk-show host Mark Davis that he hopes Congress doesn't pass the bill, but if it does, he will be ready to fight. "I’m certainly willing and ready for the fight if this administration continues to try to force their very expansive government philosophy down our collective throats," said Perry, as quoted by the Star Telegram. Perry is the longest-serving Governor in Texas history. He took office in 2000, shortly after George W. Bush resigned in order to become President. The Governor is no stranger to speaking out against - and taking action against Washington. Earlier this year, Perry turned down $555 million in stimulus funding. In the interview with Davis, Perry said the issue was about state's rights. "It really is a state issue, and if there was ever an argument for the 10th Amendment and for letting the states find a solution to their problems, this may be at the top of the class," Perry told Davis. He added that the health care plan as proposed was unstable. The 10th Amendment is a provision of the U.S. Constitution that reserves powers to state governments. Earlier this summer, Perry pushed a resolution into the Texas state legislature that would have affirmed Texas sovereignty under the 10th Amendment. The measure failed. The White House didn't comment on Perry's statement.