Rep. Laura Brod of New Prague, who was expected to be a major player in the race for the Republican gubernatorial nomination, has e-mailed friends and supporters that she will not get in the race -- at least for the time being -- due to health concerns.

“Recently I went in to the doctor for a year check up, and unfortunately, found that I had some results from routine diagnostic tests which were concerning,’’ she wrote. “Last week, a second opinion confirmed what I originally learned and set forth a treatment plan, after which I am certain I will get a clean bill of health. Over the holiday weekend, my family and I decided right now is not the right time to begin a campaign for the Governor so we are suspending the conversations I have been having related to the potential of my candidacy so we can focus our energy where it needs to be and will evaluate where things are at later this summer.’’

Brod, in her third term, is an assistant minority leader and has been a more and more prominent voice, especially in fiscal areas.

Her e-mail seemed to leave plenty of room to jump into the race at a later date.

“For us, as Republicans, and more importantly for our state, the stakes could not be higher,’’ she wrote. “The outcome to the Governor’s race will shape Minnesota’s direction for a generation as well as the national landscape as we redraw our Congressional districts following the 2010 Census. Anyone who seeks the Governor’s office must understand that wanting to be Governor isn’t enough. The person must have well-defined plan that goes beyond talking points for what they want to do as Governor. The candidate who deserves our Republican endorsement for Governor will be the one who leads a spirited discussion about bold ideas and real solutions. No matter who ends up getting in the large field of candidates for Governor, I look forward to that discussion.’’