Bush Nears Decision On Race

Gov. George W. Bush said Thursday he will announce his presidential intentions in two weeks.

"In two weeks, I'll make an announcement. So I'll see you in two weeks," Bush told reporters following a prayer breakfast in Austin.

Asked what he had decided, the Republican governor replied: "If I told you what I'd announce, you wouldn't even show up."

Although Bush remained coy about his intentions, advisers say they think he will run. He has held a series of meetings with fund-raisers and policy advisers, and elected officials from other states have traveled to Texas in recent weeks to urge him to run.

The announcement in two weeks could entail setting up a presidential exploratory committee rather than a declaration of candidacy. Formal entry into the race may not come until after the Texas Legislature adjourns May 31.