Pinkett If asked, Id consider running with Corzine

“Apprentice” winner still possible for lieutenant governor post.Randal Pinkett held a press conference Wednesday morning to address the rumors of his running for the lieutenant governor position at Gov. Jon S. Corzine’ s side.

Pinkett, chief executive of technology and management consulting firm BCT Partners Inc., in Newark, sprang onto the national stage after being named the season four winner of NBC television show “The Apprentice.”

Pinkett described himself as a Corzine supporter, and said he and his family would decide on any political plans if and when the governor asked him to run.

“The governor’s team approached me about this opportunity, as I was not seeking elected office,” Pinkett said in his statement at the press conference. “I am extremely honored to be among the people he is considering to join the ticket. As of this time, the governor has not offered me the position.”

Corzine has until July 27 to name a running mate. On Monday, Republican rival Chris Christie revealed his choice, Monmouth County Sheriff Kimberly Guadagno. Independent candidate Christopher Daggett has yet to announce a running mate.

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While Pinkett did not express an absolute desire to run for office, he hinted at some of the issues on his mind. “As we approach the November election, it is my hope that the discussion surrounding New Jersey’s future will intensify as it relates to the economy, education, health care, small business, property tax and other important issues,” he said.

E-mail Joao-Pierre Ruth at [email protected]