SPARTANBURG, S.C. (AP) — Former Texas Gov. Rick Perry is headed to South Carolina as early maneuvering continues before the 2016 presidential election.

It's his first trip to the state since leaving office in Texas on Jan. 20 after 14 years as governor.

South Carolina hosts the South's first primary. Perry dropped out of the presidential race in South Carolina in 2012 amid lagging poll numbers.

He's scheduled to meet with a Republican women's club in Spartanburg on Tuesday morning. The event is billed as a round table, with Perry taking questions from a panel. He is to address the House Republican Caucus Tuesday night in Columbia.

In 2012, Perry finished fifth in the Iowa caucuses and last in the New Hampshire primary.

He says he's better prepared for a national race this time.

More From ESPN 960 San Angelo