U.S. Rep. Mike Pence, a former talk show host and one of the more outspoken conservatives in Congress, said Thursday he won't seek the Republican nomination for president in 2012 because he wants to focus on issues "closer to home" _ a message some supporters are interpreting as his clearest sign yet that he'll run for Indiana governor.
While Pence stopped short of announcing his candidacy for the state's top job, many in political circles have assumed he is mulling it since he stepped down last year from his House leadership position. The 51-year-old Pence made multiple trips to states that host early presidential primary contests, fueling some speculation he might seek the White House instead.
"We have been especially humbled by the confidence and support of those who believe we should pursue the presidency, but after much deliberation and prayer, we believe our calling is closer to home," Pence said in a letter to supporters. "In the choice between seeking national office and serving Indiana in some capacity, we choose Indiana. We will not seek the Republican nomination for president in 2012."
Pence said he would make a decision about his future later, and would be traveling across the state in the months ahead to "learn about how Hoosiers think we might best contribute in the years ahead." Pence has a pair of public events scheduled for Friday _ a town hall meeting in Pendleton and a visit to a high school in Muncie.
"I am convinced he is now going to run for governor," said Mike McDaniel, a former state Republican chairman.
Former Republican state Rep. Jackie Walorski, a tea party favorite who narrowly lost her race last year against Democratic Rep. Joe Donnelly in northern Indiana, said she was excited by the prospect of Pence running for governor.
"I think he's the clear frontrunner and I think the race is his if he chooses to accept it," Walorski said. "I think he'd clear the field."
Indiana Republican Party Chairman Eric Holcomb said in a statement that Indiana is fortunate to be the home of GOP "rising stars" like Pence.
"Mike's been a strong voice in Congress and has always proposed common sense approaches to the problems that face our nation," he said. "He will no doubt continue to play a vital role in that conversation as he decides what future service he might offer his state."
The congressman's future has been the subject of speculation since he resigned the No. 3 GOP House leadership slot after winning sixth term in November.