Gov. Haley: Perry is a 'Superstar'

CHARLESTON — Gov. Nikki Haley called Texas Gov. Rick Perry a "superstar" at the RedState Gathering being held today at Francis Marion Hotel downtown. 

Perry is expected to make an announcement 1 p.m. at the gathering on his bid for the GOP nomination. 

What makes Perry a superstar? 

"He has a hope for America that's great," she said. She added that many of the candidates that have entered the race are superstars.

Haley said there would be no "re-do" for President Barack Obama. 

"We've got great issues and great candidates, and that combination is magical because we have a president who has failed," she said. "We have just started on how big we're going to be for 2012." 

Haley said she is not endorsing a candidate at this time, but would after all the GOP candidates had spent time in the state.

"The field is wide open," Haley said. "It's anybody's game in South Carolina right now." 

With Perry bucking the straw poll in Iowa today, the national attention has been split between there and the RedState Gathering here.

Haley said that was a "great choice." 

"His timing is brilliant," Haley said. "This is telling America, 'Get Ready.'"

For Myrtle Beach resident Gerri McDaniel, Perry's expected announcement showcases the state's role in national politics with its grassroots efforts. 

"He knows how important South Carolina is," McDaniel said. "We're the boots on the ground."

When asked if she would seek a 2012 nomination, Haley said she is "thrilled to be the governor of South Carolina" and had no plans for a higher office.