ST. PAUL — Former Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty was passed over to be Mitt Romney’s running mate, but he said he’s excited to see the Romney-Paul Ryan pairing.

In a statement, Pawlenty called Ryan a “respected leader and a bold thinker” about changes needed for the country.

He also said Ryan’s roots in Wisconsin will help Romney win that key swing state. He said he’ll do all he can to help Romney win the election.

It’s the second time in four years Pawlenty’s been an also-ran in the selection for a GOP No. 2. John McCain considered Pawlenty before settling on Sarah Palin in 2008.