President Trump recognized Energy Secretary Rick Perry, a Texas native, during his Dallas rally tonight, telling the crowd that Perry would be leaving at the end of the year.

Trump speculated that Perry will return home to Texas, offering praise for his Energy Secretary.

"Whatever he does, he’s going to be successful. He spent three years with us and I want to thank you, Rick, what a job he's done," he said.

More background: The news of Perry's impending departure comes as acting White House chief of staff Mick Mulvaney confirmed today that Trump asked Perry to work with Rudy Giuliani on policies related to Ukraine.

Mulvaney said this took place during a May meeting at the White House that was attended by Perry, Gordon Sondland, the US ambassador to the European Union, and Kurt Volker, the former special envoy to Ukraine. Mulvaney said the administration was “very interested in trying to get Ukraine as an energy partner,” and said that is why Perry was involved.