Pawlenty buzz in overdrive

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ST. PAUL -- The speculation game is in overdrive around Minnesota political circles.

Whenever Gov. Tim Pawlenty's name is mentioned, pundits want to know what that means to his vice presidential chances.

One newspaper threw a story on Page 1 wondering if his Republican National Convention speech coming the same night as John McCain's acceptance speech could be an indication that he would be the McCain running mate. Others said it was only natural to have the home-state governor deliver a speech.

Then came a McCain news release announcing Pawlenty would be co-chairman of the National Steering Committee of the Sportsman for McCain Coalition. That set off a new round of speculation: Why would McCain name his running mate to such a position? The theory then was that the sportsman news release must be a clear indication that Pawlenty is out.

Ironically, Pawlenty's vice presidential stock appeared to be dropping just as a poll said he could bring votes to McCain.

The Minnesota Public Radio-University of Minnesota poll gives Barack Obama a 48 percent to 38 percent edge in Minnesota, although 20 percent of all voters are either undecided or could switch candidates. Also, if Pawlenty is McCain's pick, the Arizona senator could get a 13-point bump in the state.

Tags: minnesota news, vice presidency speculation, pawlenty