Palin and Pawlenty to help Bachmann raise cash

Both Tim Pawlenty and Sarah Palin will help Rep. Michele Bachmann raise money in April.

Washington (CNN) – Sarah Palin and Tim Pawlenty, two potential rivals for the 2012 Republican presidential nomination, will meet in Minneapolis next month to help raise money for Rep. Michele Bachmann, an outspoken conservative and popular figure among Tea Party activists.

Palin had previously announced that she would campaign for Bachmann this spring, and Bachmann's campaign followed up Thursday with the announcement that the former Alaska governor will host an April 7 fundraiser for the Bachmann's re-election campaign.

But Bachmann's campaign also announced that Pawlenty, the Minnesota governor, will be one of several "Honorary Hosts" for the fundraiser - adding an extra layer of 2012 intrigue to the event.

The other "Honorary Hosts" are also Minnesota Republicans: former Sen. Norm Coleman, Rep. John Kline and Rep. Erik Paulsen.

Bachmann's campaign said a rally with Palin is still being planned.