INDIANAPOLIS – Indiana’s secretary of state says he’s considering whether to launch a campaign for the U.S. Senate seat now held by Democrat Evan Bayh.

Todd Rokita is a Republican who can’t seek re-election as secretary of state this year because of term limits.

Rokita told The Indianapolis Star in an e-mailed statement that he had been encouraged to enter the Senate race by a diverse group of people.

Republican Congressman Mike Pence announced Tuesday that he wouldn’t challenge Bayh, who has twice easily won election to the Senate.

Three Republicans have formally declared their candidacy for their party’s nomination – state Sen. Marlin Stutzman, Richmond financial adviser Don Bates and Fishers businessman Richard Behney. Former Rep. John Hostettler has also said he will run, although he has not formally notified election officials.

The primary is May 4.