Minnesota Governor Tim Pawlenty announced that he will not run for a third term next year, creating speculation about a possible Presidential bid in 2012. In a KSTP poll taken May 20, Pawlenty led all potential Democratic challengers. With him out of the picture, the race is wide open. So far, 8 Democrats have announced a run, including former Senator Mark Dayton, former State House Minority Leader Matt Entenza, and State Senator John Marty. There is also speculation that Minneapolis Mayor R.T. Rybak, and St. Paul Mayor Chris Coleman will join the race.
So far, all Republicans were deferring to Pawlenty, but look for a crowded field on the right side of the ballot as well. Potentail candidates are House Minority Leader Marty Seifert, U.S. Representative Michelle Bachmann, and former Senator Norm Coleman, who just yesterday appealed last year’s election results to the Minnesota Supreme Court.
This one looks to be an ugly fight on both sides for the primary, and that will continue to the general election. With the heavy favorite out of the race, this may be a good chance for the DFL to pick up a governor’s mansion that they haven’t held since 1991.
Great work, webmaster, nice design!