Pawlenty says GOP needs more diversity
by The Associated Press

STEVENS POINT, Wis. -- Minnesota Governor Tim Pawlenty told Wisconsin Republicans that the party needs to attract more diverse candidates and voters, and speak about issues that people care about.

Pawlenty delivered the keynote address at the Wisconsin GOP convention in Stevens Point last night.

He says Republicans must get back to their core values and principles and project an image of hope and optimism like former President Reagan did.

Pawlenty has been mentioned as a possible running mate for presidential candidate John McCain but says he doesn't have any designs beyond volunteering to help McCain's campaign.

He says he's focused on being governor.