State Sen. Tom Bakk has taken the first step toward running for governor in 2010. The Virginia, Minnesota Democrat has created a campaign committee, which will allow him to raise money for a potential run. According to the Associated Press, Bakk will decide by the end of the year whether to seek the state’s top post. He joins Ramsey County Attorney Susan Gaertner in formally testing the waters for a Gubernatorial bid on the DFL side. But the field of contenders is expected to be deep, with Congressman Tim Walz, assistant senate majority leader Tarryl Clark, and Twin Cities mayors R.T. Rybak and Chris Coleman frequently cited as possible candidates. Current Gov. Tim Pawlenty has not said whether he’ll seek re-election. (Hat tip: Polinaut)