In a statement released today, Senator John Thune (R-SD) ended speculation about a potential 2012 run. He said that he felt he was best positioned to “fight for America’s future right here in trenches of the United States Senate.” He said that decision was made after a lot of prayer and from feedback and encouragement from friends, family and supporters.
So add Thune’s name along with Pence to the list of those not running, and we are starting to get a clearer picture of what the 2012 Iowa Caucus field won’t look like. Still plenty of time for people to put their hat in the ring or decide not to. I believe that Thune not getting into the thick of this race will help former Minnesota Governor Tim Pawlenty out the most, possibly former Senator Rick Santorum (R-PA) as well.