NASHVILLE (AP) - After exploring a potential run for governor, Memphis Democrat Sara Kyle has announced that she won't make a bid for the office.

The Commercial Appeal (http://bit.ly/1euGKAd) reports the announcement Thursday came as no surprise. Kyle said in August that she was considering a run against Republican Gov. Bill Haslam, but has been quiet for weeks on her deliberations and had not started fundraising.

"After much deliberation, I have decided not to run for governor in 2014," Kyle said in a prepared statement. "I have been so blessed to receive support and encouragement from thousands of my fellow Tennesseans. I have traveled through many parts of the state, hearing about issues that truly concern our citizens, and I have spent many hours talking to members of my party about the viability of my candidacy, but at this time I do not believe that a campaign for governor is the best way for me to help my party and my state."

The announcement means Haslam has not yet drawn an opponent to run against him as he seeks a second term in November.

The deadline to file qualifying petitions to become a candidate is April 3.