Exit Or Extension?

Like many of my fellow Minnesota conservatives I haven't always been a wholehearted supporter of Governor Pawlenty over the years. But as I listened to his press conference this afternoon--where he announced that he will not seek a third term as governor--I was again reminded of some of his finer characteristics.

He was at times funny, folksy, humble, down-to-earth, witty, and for a politician refreshingly honest (at least except for the details on his future plans). He was also passionate, pragmatic, and even poignant in measured doses. And for the first time that I can recall, he sounded confident in referencing (again with little detail) his vision for the state moving forward in fast-changing times. In brief and broad outlines, he seemed to be hinting at a much different future from what the DFL or even President Obama has in mind.

The performance demonstrated again the qualities that made Pawlenty such an appealing candidate for governor in the first place, ones that may serve him well if he elects to seek national office. Besides how can you not like a guy who references hockey as much as he does? Even if he does sound like a bit of a puck hog..