Where have all the good men gone
And where are all the gods?
Where’s the street-wise Hercules
To fight the rising odds?

I need a hero
I’m holding on for a hero til the end of the night
He’s gotta be strong
And he’s gotta be fast
And he’s gotta be fresh from the fight
I need a hero
I’m holding on for a hero til the morning light
He’s gotta be sure
And it’s gotta be soon
And he’s gotta be larger than life.

These are the lyrics from Bonnie Tyler’s hit song, “Holding Out For a Hero”. While she certainly was not singing about politics, a case can be made that the lyrics are pointed and especially poignant when viewed through the prism of the 2012 Presidential election. The current slate of Republican candidates has repeatedly been described as somehow “weak”. Pundits and organizers have held rumored meetings to encourage others to enter the race. Here is my take on what America needs as we stand at the political crossroad. A candidate that has known firsthand the sting of hard work, the necessity of making it on your own, by sweat of one’s brow and elbow grease. A candidate who was not borne of elitist station. One that knows if you are not born with pull, you better learn how to push. One that has overcome hardships and obstacles that knows the road to the American Dream can be fraught with occasional nightmares. And, despite overwhelming naysayers, poll numbers and odds, has risen to the occasion without bitterness, holding hope and faith in their heart.  A candidate tempered and steeled by the realities of political battle. And won.  A candidate that holds compassion, generosity in high esteem as Americans are among the most compassionate and generous of nations. A loving parent that brags about American victories, not apologizes, and consoles in times of national sorrow.  A candidate who knows the Constitution and loves it…and is prepared to defend it against any threat. One who can rally the troops and inspire loyalty. A candidate who stands with our strongest allies, especially Israel, in their times of travail. One strong enough to create bipartisan agreement without abandoning core values. One who can guide America back from the brink of economic abyss that we find ourselves. And finally a candidate that can communicate with the American people displaying love of country, courage of conviction and strength, reminding and restoring us of our national greatness.

While there are many good, qualified candidates that have thrown their hats in this presidential race, there is one more candidate still deciding whether to enter the national fray: Texas Governor Rick Perry. Several groups have recently been organized to draft Governor Perry to run. These groups are on to something: a proven candidate with a strong record of success. The window of opportunity to enter the race is rapidly closing. Sources close to the governor say a decision will be forthcoming, most likely sometime in August. And the clock ticks away…

Lady Liberty stands alone. Her torch still burns brightly, proudly as a beacon against an uncertain world. Her harbor is a safe haven for all who are oppressed. The immortal words of Emma Lazarus inscribed on her base still ring true across many seas of despair. But the weight of the burden is tiring and she—America—calls out for a renewed support system.  Lady Liberty does not need a rescuer; she needs a defender, a helper, someone ready to lead. We need a hero. The voters are holding out for a hero til the morning light. He’s got to be sure. It’s got to be soon.  And he’s gotta be larger than life. Let’s hope that Rick Perry can and will answer that call.

Alessa Caye

Founder, Caye Street

Follow me on Twitter @CayeStreet