By LIZ SIDOTI , Associated Press, Last update: February 19, 2010 - 9:33 PM

WASHINGTON - Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty and Indiana Rep. Mike Pence, two possible 2012 presidential candidates, called for a return to conservative principles before a critical constituency Friday, while Mississippi Gov. Haley Barbour wouldn't rule out a White House bid of his own.

"If you see me losing 40 pounds that means I'm either running or have cancer," quipped Barbour, a former lobbyist and GOP chairman who Republican insiders say could be a formidable candidate.

The head of the Republican Governors' Association, Barbour made the comments to a group of reporters ahead of a weekend meeting of the nation's governors. He said he would focus this year on helping Republicans elected in governor's races. After November, Barbour said, he might considering running. Still, he called the prospect unlikely.

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