Sources close to Tim Pawlenty say the Minnesota governor won't seek a third term.

The Republican is expected to make that announcement later Tuesday.

But the sources say that he won't address the future. They spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity as an announcement was pending. They say Pawlenty won't rule anything in or out during a planned news conference. That will certainly stoke speculation that Pawlenty is gearing up for a 2012 presidential run.

He was a top surrogate for John McCain's presidential campaign in 2008 and was among those considered for the vice presidential slot on the GOP ticket.