AUSTIN (November 2, 2009)—TEXPAC, the Texas Medical Association’s political arm, endorsed Gov. Rick Perry’s bid for reelection Monday.

Perry is facing a challenge in the 2010 Republican primary from Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison, R-Texas.

TEXPAC endorsed Perry because of his support of medical liability reforms and efforts to protect “the sacred patient-physician bond,” TMA President William H. Fleming, III MD said Monday.

“We appreciate his guidance to ensure prompt payment by health insurance companies and his strong support to provide physicians meaningful and real opportunities to serve in rural and underserved areas,” Fleming said.