The following is a statement from Governor Tim Pawlenty regarding his re-election and opportunity to serve a second term as the 39th Governor of Minnesota:

 “Mike Hatch graciously called this morning to offer his congratulations after a hard-fought, vigorous campaign. I thanked the Attorney General for a spirited race and his long service to the people of Minnesota.

“I am extremely grateful and humbled that the people of Minnesota have given me another opportunity to lead this great state. Lt. Governor Molnau and I promise to aggressively tackle the challenges and opportunities before us and work to make Minnesota an even greater state. I will be contacting legislative leaders from both sides of the aisle soon to discuss areas where we can find common ground as we look to the 2007 legislative session and beyond.

“It is said that gratitude opens the door for more blessing. We are incredibly grateful for the support and faith that the people of Minnesota have given us.”