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AUSTIN (AP) - Former Gov. Rick Perry has joined a number of top Texas Republicans in cheering Donald Trump's once seemingly unthinkable presidential election win.

Perry tweeted Wednesday: "The people have spoken! Congratulations @realDonaldTrump, Mr. President elect. #Election2016 #MAGA." That last part, of course, stands for "Make American great again."

Perry was one of a crowded field that lost to Trump in the Republican presidential primary. He was then among Trump's harshest critics, even once calling the billionaire businessman a cancer on conservatism.

But Perry eventually endorsed and vocally campaigned for Trump. He has also said he'd be open to serving in a Trump administration.

Perry left office last year. His successor, Gov. Greg Abbott, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz and other top Texas conservatives are all hailing Trump's victory.

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