Frist won't run for TN governor in 2010

Former Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist won't run for Tennessee governor in 2010, his political action committee said in a statement Sunday.

The Nashville Republican says he will instead focus on his global health initiatives, teaching at Vanderbilt University and his private investment work. Frist says he will also launch an initiative to improve K-12 education.

Frist's decision opens the door to what is already shaping up to be a crowded field seeking the GOP's gubernatorial nomination.

U.S. Rep. Zach Wamp of Chattanooga and prosecutor Bill Gibbons of Memphis have already announced they would run if Frist remained out of the race.

Knoxville Mayor Bill Haslam and state Senate Speaker Ron Ramsey of Blountville are also considering bids.

Former Tennessee GOP chairman Susan Williams said she spoke to Frist about running for governor a few months ago. She said she wasn't suprised by his decision.

"Senator Frist is one of those people that really ought to be involved in global something, you know, curing AIDS or some health issue that the world looks at," she said. "I just got the impression there was something out there for him besides running for governor."

Williams said she expects an interesting competition among the Republican hopefuls, but she doesn't believe the campaigns will be devisive to the party.

Meanwhile, Frist told the Associated Press he won't endorse a candidate for at least another year.

Incumbent Democratic Gov. Phil Bredesen can't run again because of term limits.

Here is the full statement released to 10News by VolPac, Frist's political action committee:

"For 12 years, I had the tremendous honor of representing the interests of more than six million Tennesseans in the U.S. Senate. I pledged in 1994 to serve two terms and then, consistent with being a 'citizen legislator,' return to my childhood home in Nashville. After honoring my word, my wife Karyn and I, along with our three boys, returned to private life as active members of Tennessee's civic and business communities.

"After significant reflection and conversations with loved ones, I have decided to remain a private citizen for the foreseeable future. I will, however, continue serving the people of Tennessee.

"My long-standing efforts both as a doctor and policymaker to improve access to quality, affordable health care throughout our state will carry on. I will also launch a statewide, nonpartisan, grassroots education initiative to improve K-12 education in Tennessee late this month.

"I will never enjoy a privilege greater than serving the people of Tennessee. I know the citizens of our great state will identify a tremendous leader to serve as our next governor, and I stand ready to assist in any way that benefits Tennessee."