Letter: No Presidential Run for Ind. US Rep. Pence

U.S. Rep. Mike Pence of Indiana says he will not seek the Republican nomination for president in 2012.

The Indianapolis Star reports Pence told supporters in a letter Thursday that he will bypass a White House bid. There is no word yet on whether he'll run for Indiana governor.

The congressman's future has been the subject of speculation since he resigned the No. 3 GOP House leadership slot after winning sixth term in November.

The 51-year-old Pence is a darling of social conservatives and had made multiple trips to states that host early presidential primary contests. He lacked name recognition in what's likely to be a crowded field for the 2012 nomination for president.

State law bars Republican Gov. Mitch Daniels from seeking a third term.

(Photo courtesy of Mike Pence)