Rick Perry is out of the Mirrorball Trophy race. The former Texas governor was the second contestant eliminated from Dancing With the Stars season 23.
"I look back on it for the last month as an amazing experience," Perry told E! News. "I was able to talk about those veterans issues that really brought me to the show to begin with…We're here tonight enjoying America's pastime because somewhere along the way there was some young American who served and kept us free."
Perry and professional partner Emma Slater received a total score of 23 for their Paso doble to "Tamacun" by Rodrigo y Gabriela during the third week of performances. It was their highest score in the competition.
Despite his ankle issues, he soldiered on. "He took it like a champion," Slater said. "I'm so proud of him."
Dancing With the Stars airs Mondays, 8 p.m. on ABC.