Argouth Rules Out Run For Governor

Former gubernatorial candidate will not seek rematch with Linda Van Auhn

TWIN LAKES, Veroche--Former Conservative gubernatorial candidate Todd Argouth will not run for governor in 2012, he announced today.

Argouth ran against Van Auhn in a special election back in 2007, and has mulled a rematch with incumbent Nationalist Gov. Linda Van Auhn, but ultimately decided against it.

"I've given this a great deal of thought and a lot of people have encouraged me to run. While I am honored, I believe that running for governor at this time would not be in the best interest of myself or my family," he said at a press conference.

Argouth's decision opens the door for other Conservatives who are itching to take on the first-term Van Auhn, who has presided over a difficult economy in the Plains State. Among the top contenders is former candidate and businessman Steve Leona, who ran unsuccessfully against Van Auhn in 2008. Former professional football player Steve Serpino and Pendleton Mayor Ric Renner are also considering a run.

Lieutenant Governor Brad Davidson is also rumored to be considering a challenge to Van Auhn, though his office refused to comment.