The Hill News

If Rep. Michele Bachmann (R-Minn.) decides to run for president in 2012, one former staffer won't vote for her.

Bachmann's most recent chief of staff, Ron Carey, is planning on voting for former Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty (R), who announced the formation of an exploratory committee earlier this week, instead of Bachmann, according to Fox News.

"My experience with Pawlenty, the more people get to know him, he's a very sharp guy. He's very likable," Carey said. "I hope the Republican faithful connect their heads with their hearts. You have candidates to get people fired up, but can they actually build a coalition? That's why I'm supporting Pawlenty."

According to sources close to Bachmann, the Tea P! arty favorite will form an exploratory committee later this summer if she decides to run for president.

Recently, Bachmann has sparked speculation that she might join the 2012 Republican White House field. She has been visiting key battleground states Iowa, New Hampshire, and South Carolina and hiring staff there.

Carey told Fox he wasn't surprised about the reports that Bachmann is planning on forming an exploratory committee. Carey has a history of disagreeing with Bachmann and served for Bachmann for only five months. In February he told the Associated Press that he believes Bachmann doesn't have what it takes to be president.

"And even if she were elected I don't believe she would be ready for the position of the president of the United States," he! said.