California Republicans Fundraising for Rick Perry

Texas Gov. Rick Perry (R) is far from making a decision about a White House bid, but a cadre of California Republicans are raising money on his behalf in the meantime by starting a 527 organization.

California GOP consultant Bob Schuman filed paperwork Monday with the IRS to start Americans for Rick Perry, which aims to raise money and create a grass-roots operation on the governor’s behalf until he makes a decision about running for president.

Elizabeth Blakemore, a well-known Houston-based GOP fundraiser, is raising money for the group. Schuman said the goal is to bring in $500,000 by Aug. 1.