Republican Brian Sullivan definitely staying out of governor’s race

by T.W. Budig,
ECM Capitol Reporter

Republican businessman Brian Sullivan, who challenged then state representative Tim Pawlenty for the Republican party gubernatorial endorsement in 2001, has been reported to be considering another run for governor next year.

But today (Monday, Nov. 9) Sullivan issued a statement squashing speculation about a 2010 run.

“In June, I announced that I would not run for governor in 2010. However, in the following months, I received many requests from Republican activists to reconsider that decision,” said Sullivan.

“As a result, two weeks ago I asked some friends to sound out the opinions of party leaders about the possibility of my candidacy and to understand the challenges of a late entry into the race,” he said.

“Though I received much gratifying encouragement to run, I concluded that my business obligations would prevent me from dedicating the time needed to run an effective campaign. Accordingly, I will not reconsider my previous decision, and I will not be a candidate for governor next year,” Sullivan said.

Sullivan expressed his intentions of supporting the endorsed Republican party gubernatorial candidate.