William Howell says front-runner Rick Perry was target for GOP candidates at debate . He says Mitt Romney turned focus to Social Security and Perry 's Ponzi scheme comment . He says Perry now says he 'd keep Social Security safe , then talks about moving it to states . Howell : The Texas governor is a former congressman who has been in the Senate since 1997.
William Howell says front-runner Rick Perry was target for GOP candidates at debate . He says Mitt Romney turned focus to Social Security and Perry 's Ponzi scheme comment . He says Perry now says he 'd keep Social Security safe , then talks about moving it to states . Howell : Perry may be favored , but in general election Social Security stance would hurt him .