Minnesota Governor Tim Pawlenty is in Iowa today, helping Iowa Republicans raise campaign cash.
Pawlenty is one of seven former or current governors who’ve made trips to Iowa since the 2008 election, fueling speculation that they’ll run for president in 2012. Pawlenty plans to be in Dubuque this morning to help a local candidate for the Iowa House raise money. He’ll headline two other fundraisers today. On Sunday evening Pawlenty will be in West Liberty for another House candidate and on Monday morning he’ll be in Davenport to help the Scott County G.O.P. raise money.
Pawlenty has been laying the groundwork for a presidential campaign, hiring experienced staff and forming a political action committee. In addition, Pawlenty plans to return to Iowa in a few weeks to visit the Iowa State Fair — a popular stop for politicians.