Tim Pawlenty

Republican Tim Pawlenty will announce this summer whether he plans to run in 2010 for a third term as governor of Minnesota.

Pawlenty discussed this timeline — and the pros and cons factoring into his candidacy decision — during an interview with Minnesota Public Radio host Cathy Wurzer Thursday. “I’ve got a lot of energy and ideas left for leadership and service, but that has to be weighed against making sure you don’t overstay your welcome,” Pawlenty said on the network’s Morning Edition program.  

Pawlenty said “family considerations and career considerations and a bunch of other factors” will ultimately determine whether he runs for governor or pursues another career path.