AP Interview: Perry calls jobs record a big plus

DES MOINES, Iowa — Texas Gov. Rick Perry contended Monday he has the best economic record and executive experience in government of any Republican presidential candidate, contrasting his credentials with those of his top two rivals, Mitt Romney and Michele Bachmann.

"I respect all the other candidates in the field but there is no one that can stand toe-to-toe with us," Perry told The Associated Press in an interview at the start of his first full day campaigning in the leadoff caucus state of Iowa.

AP Photo/Charles Dharapak

Republican presidential candidate, Texas Gov. Rick Perry, greets visit...