Minnesota Governor Pawlenty has announced he will not seek a third term in 2010. This move certainly gives the Democrats a big pickup opportunity given that the state is quite blue in most elections. There is also considerable speculation that the centrist Republican might run for President in 2012. He refused to confirm or deny any such rumors at his press conference today.

Looking to the 2010 campaign it is expected that a number of candidates will be in the race. The Democratic (or in Minnesota DFL) field has been growing for some time and the GOP field is expected to be large. It might include soon to be former Senator Coleman.