Nugent says Texas guv OK with Confederate shirt

Ted Nugent says Texas Gov. Rick Perry had no problem with his decision to wear a Confederate flag shirt during his appearance at last week's inaugural ball in Austin — and even complimented his performance.

Nugent, 58, said Perry talked to him backstage after the black-tie event, complimenting him on "the greatest rock 'n' roll" and thanking him for coming, several newspapers reported Tuesday.

Perry spokesman Robert Black said the governor wouldn't wear such a shirt, but told Nugent he has the right to wear whatever he wants.

"If you're going to defend freedom of expression, then you're going to have to defend all freedom of expression," Black said.

When asked if Perry would have invited Nugent if he had known what he would wear, Black said: "Yes."<