Pawlenty Points to Romney Advantages

Former Minnesota Gov. and one-time Republican presidential candidate Tim Pawlenty sees Mitt Romney as the strongest Republican hopeful now. But he’s not ready to offer an endorsement yet, The Hill reports.

Pawlenty told MSNBC that the campaign is turning into a two-horse race between Texas Gov. Rick Perry and former Massachusetts Gov. Romney.

"The polls would indicate slightly that Mitt Romney runs a little better against Barack Obama," Pawlenty said. He said appealing to independents and moderate Democrats will be important for the Republicans’ choice. "Mitt Romney, I think, can do that. Rick Perry, we'll see," he said.

While some Republicans have suggested that Romney must go on the attack against Perry, who has usurped him in recent polls, Pawlenty said such as strategy might backfire.