According to a news report on WWTN Radio in Nashville this morning, Former Republican Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist has decided not to run for Governor of Tennessee in the 2010 election.

Frist, considered by most to be the odds on favorite to succeed incumbent Democrat Governor Phil Bredesen should he choose to seek the office, has formally informed apparent incoming Tennessee House Speaker Jason Mumpower (Republican from East Tennessee) of his intentions to remain a private citizen.

Frist's decision opens up the race to Congressman Zach Wamp (R-Chattanooga), Lt. Governor Ron Ramsey, and a host of other Republicans who have set their eye on the Governor's seat. It also gives Democrats some hope of retaining the seat, as a Frist candidacy probably would have kept serious Democrat contenders out of the race