TX Gov. Rick Perry undergoing minor back surgery

AUSTIN, TX A spokesman for the governor said Friday's surgery will hopefully correct a recurring back ailment. Mark Miner said the operation will have no impact on the governor's ability to fulfill his duties. The 61-year-old governor is an avid runner and in good health.

Perry has said he is considering a run for the presidency in 2012. He returned from a trip to California on Thursday night, where he met with potential donors in Beverly Hills and with lawmakers who started a "Draft Rick Perry for President" campaign.

Perry's advisors have said the governor is still weeks away from making a decision on whether to launch a bid for the White House.