Gov. Tim Pawlenty: Sarah Palin Is a 'Force of Nature'

Jan. 7, 2011— -- Although Gov. Tim Pawlenty no longer holds the executive seat in Minnesota, he is far from hanging up his political hat for good.

An evangelical Christian who has been an outspoken voice for the GOP, Pawlenty sat down exclusively with "Nightline's" Terry Moran to talk about running for president in 2012, his chief potential rival Sarah Palin and President George W. Bush's legacy.

Pawlenty denied that his upcoming book tour, which will take him to some key battleground states in December, was the kickoff for his presidential campaign. His autobiography, "Courage to Stand: An American Story," is due out on Jan. 11.

But he's made no secret of the fact that he is heavily considering a presidential bid.