Gov. Tim Pawlenty said Thursday that he will announce this summer whether he will seek election to a third term.
The Republican governor, who has refused to discuss speculation that he is eyeing a bid for the White House in 2012, has said on several recent occasions that he will announce his reelection plans soon.
A look back at his statements shows he has pushed back the announcement date. At the State Fair last year, Pawlenty said he would make a decision early in 2009.
He made Thursday's comments in an interview aired on Minnesota Public Radio.
Pawlenty was first elected governor in 2002 and reelected in 2006.
KEVIN DUCHSCHERE