Indiana Senate Democratic Leader Not Running for Governor

The top Democrat in the Indiana Senate says she won't run for governor in 2012.

Sen. Vi Simpson of Bloomington says she gave it serious thought but won't be running for governor. Simpson says she hopes to remain a progressive voice in the Statehouse, which is dominated by Republicans who control the House, Senate and governor's office.

Simpson says state government should focus on "individual rights and economic equality rather than on radical social agendas.''

Former House Speaker John Gregg is the only Democrat who has said he'll run for the job. Republican Gov. Mitch Daniels can't seek a third consecutive term.

Republican U.S. Rep. Mike Pence is considered the front-runner in the race for governor, though GOP businessman Jim Wallace of Fishers is also running.