(Indianapolis, Ind.) – While a woman may still run for Indiana governor in 2012, it won’t be Becky Skillman.

Indiana Lt. Gov. Becky Skillman

Lieutenant Governor Skillman announced Monday she will not run to replace her current boss, Mitch Daniels.

"With much disappointment, I am announcing today that I will not be a candidate for Governor in 2012.  My end of year physical exam revealed minor health issues. Nothing will interfere with my devotion to my duties as Lt. Governor, and I plan to continue the same pace as always.  However, it is best to continue without the additional stress of a gubernatorial campaign,” Skillman said, also thanking her staff, friends, and supporters.

In a statement, Daniels said the state has never had a better lieutenant governor.

“Since we citizens won’t be fortunate enough to experience it, take it from me that Becky would have made a superb governor, ready in every respect and Hoosier to her core,” said Daniels.

Skillman has made a lifelong career of politics beginning in 1976 as recorder in Lawrence County. She later became the county’s elected clerk which led to her 1992 election to the state Senate.

"I look forward to the next two years of service with enthusiasm, particularly the up-coming legislative session, as Governor Mitch and I work every day to move our state forward," said Skillman.