Reply #26: Pawlenty says he's 'gonna do whatever the court says.' Hope he means the Minnesota Supreme Court. [View All]

[flpoljunkie]

Pawlenty’s decision could also affect the outcome of the still contested Minnesota Senate recount.

The governor has resisted pressure from Democrats to sign the election certificate declaring Democrat Al Franken the winner over Republican Norm Coleman. And Pawlenty has also refused to commit to signing the certificate when the state Supreme Court decides the recount case, probably later this month.

Without reelection prospects to worry about in a moderate state that’s losing enthusiasm for Coleman, Pawlenty could make a play to conservatives by backing Coleman until the absolute end in order to score points with Republican activists in early primary states.

But Pawlenty said his decision not to seek a third term will not impact whatever action he takes when the court rules and pledged not to unnecessarily delay the certification.

“I’m gonna do whatever the court says,” Pawlenty vowed. “As soon as I’m directed to sign the certificate, I will.”

Jonathan Martin contributed to this story.

http://www.politico.com/news/stories/0609/23242_Page2.html#ixzz0HJRkiId7&A