Democrat Elizabeth Roberts, the lieutenant governor of Rhode Island, has decided to forgo the 2010 bid for governor that she had been mulling. Roberts will instead seek re-election to her current post.

“I want to thank all of my supporters and let them know that I will continue to work to turn the pages of politics as usual in Rhode Island,” said Roberts in a statement released Wednesday afternoon. “I will continue to fight for quality health care for all; a stronger, more diverse Rhode Island economy; and honest, open and effective government.”

Roberts, by choosing to pass up the race to succeed term-limited Republican Gov. Donald L. Carcieri, thins a primary field that looked crowded with prominent Democratic officeholders. Rhode Island Attorney General Patrick Lynch and state Treasurer Frank Caprio are both expected to launch campaigns for the open seat.