Text kerning setting - how do I get it to apply to all new text sets

I found the Text Properties box, and there are two ways to set the kerning (spaces between each letter) but it only adjusts the chosen text. Upon starting a new line of text, the kerning properties do not apply. I have also tried "Save Settings as default" with no luck. Anyone know of a way to make this kerning effect stick so that all new text follows the kerning I've set for it? What steps am I missing?  Where is the "Apply" button within the Text Properties dropdown?  Am I barking up the wrong text dropdown?