Analyst: 'Pawlenty Has A Double Edged Sword'

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- Former Minnesota first lady Mary Pawlenty is thinking about running for the congressional seat currently held by Rep. John Kline.

Kline has served seven terms. This past week, he announced he is not running for re-election.

If Pawlenty does indeed run, she would certainly bring name recognition to the race.

She was Minnesota's first lady for eight years and was known for her work with military families. She is also an attorney who served as a Minnesota district court judge for 13 years.

But experts say she will more than likely face the challenge of defending her husband's legacy.

Political analyst Larry Jacobs says Pawlenty would be an impressive candidate and one of the all-stars vying for Kline's seat.

She brings name recognition, her husband's fundraising networks, her own career as a judge, and most recently her work in the nonprofit sector.

However, Jacobs says her husband's run for president may be in the limelight as well.

"Pawlenty has a double edged sword," he said. "Her husband is her greatest strength. But also comes with challenges. He had an embarrassing run for president. He's been working for the banking industry. Those are things she'll have to find her way to manage."

On Saturday, Chris Fields, the deputy chairman of the GOP, said the Pawlenty name won't be significant in the race. The important thing, he said, is her ideas.

"This season, Republicans are interested in good ideas," Fields said. "That's what's going to carry the day."

Jacobs says Pawlenty has always had a hunger for policy. He believes she would rise to the occasion.

On the other hand, he says it is different being on the sidelines and supporting than being the target or criticism.

Three people are already running for Kline's seat, with more considering campaigns.

For now, the candidates include Democrats Angie Craig and Mary Lawrence, as well as Republican David Gerson.