If Chris Christie decides to run for president, he won’t be the first person to jump into a race after saying definitely that he would not.  After all, when Tim Russert asked Barack Obama when he was still a senator whether he would run in 2008, Obama said, “I will not.”

But Chris Christie’s denials have sounded more heartfelt than your typical politician demurring on a run.  He hasn’t quite sounded like William Sherman opting out of the 1884 race  – “I will not accept if nominated and will not serve if elected” – but he’s come pretty close.

Exhibit A:  Christie’s interview with Diane Sawyer on April 6, 2011.

“I don’t feel ready in my heart to be president,” Christie said.  “And unless I do, I don’t have any right offering myself to the people of this country.”

The entire exchange is worth watching as Christie speculation is again running rampant. You can watch the interview HERE .

To read the full transcript of their conversation click HERE