Gentlemen, start your … political campaigns? Texas Gov. Rick Perry’s re-election campaign said Tuesday that he’s sponsoring Bobby Labonte’s car for the April 18 NASCAR Sprint Cup race at the Texas Motor Speedway. Perry and Labonte were on hand Tuesday as the car was unveiled.

It has the words “Governor Perry” painted on the hood, the campaign’s Web address emblazoned on the doors and the message “Perry Governor 2010″ on its back. Perry says Labonte’s driving reminds him of Texas’ strong economy. He is running against Democrat Bill White in November’s election.

Associated Press