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Rep.Michele Bachmann, R-Minn., announced today she's running for re-election to Congress after ending her presidential bid earlier this month. The announcement ends weeks of speculation that Bachmann might leave Congress after her term ends.

Bachmann ended her presidential bid earlier this month after a fifth place finish in the Iowa Caucus. After the defeat, there was speculation that she might leave Congress when her term ends. Bachmann told reporters today that she plans to focus on her work in the House of Representatives.

"I laid everything on the line in the last election because I saw how severe this spending crisis is in the United States," Bachmann said.  "This debt crisis, it's impacting national security. I think people recognize that I'm an extremely hard worker and that I've represented their values."

When asked if she would seek a leadership position among House Republicans, she said no.

"I'm more concerned about the issues," Bachmann said.  "I'm more concerned about turning the economy around and protecting the safety of the American people than I am about a leadership position."

But Bachmann does face hurdles - she's lost some key staffers, her campaign coffers are likely close to empty and a recent statewide poll suggests that Minnesota voters have developed a negative impression of her.

Another factor is what her congressional district might look like.  A court panel is scheduled to release a new set of political boundaries next month as a result of the once a decade redistricting process.  Bachmann currently represents the 6th District which will see significant changes because of its fast growing population.

Listen to what Bachmann said to reporters this morning:

DFL Party Chair Ken Martin issued a statement criticizing Bachmann.

National Republican Congressional Committee Chairman Pete Sessions (R-TX) issued a statement praising Bachmann for her decision to run again.

Bachmann's decision brings some certainty to a Republican Party that has been speculating about her future.  She could help deliver votes for state and federal candidates in 2012, since she has worked to elect them in past election cycles.  She is also heavily supported by Christian conservatives and could help deliver votes for a  constitutional amendment to define marriage as between one man and one woman.

 Minnesota Republican Party Chair Pat Shortridge issued this statement on Bachmann's decision:

Bachmann to seek fourth term in U.S. House

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