Pro-growth, pro-life and pro-states' rights, is a solid platform to stand on. He's no Reagan but as Rummy said, you go to war with the army you have, not the one you wish you had.
Pro-life or not, he's a crony. So yes, his cronyism overrules him as a legitimate conservative candidate. Perry supporters are either in denial, or they are easily conned. Take your pick.
It's out there in black and white. All anyone need do is look. So, his proponents must be in denial. The truth will not be denied, in the long run. He will have to answer. Then what? A choice between socialism, or cronyism? It's gonna be a problem. I choose neither.