The governor of the U.S. state of New Jersey has reportedly decided against running for president, despite pleas from prominent Republican party members and supporters.

Sources close to Chris Christie tell U.S. media the Republican governor will formally announce his plans at a news conference later Tuesday.

Christie has repeatedly rejected the idea of a possible presidential bid. But continued encouragement from his party prompted him to reconsider.

Political analysts say Christie may have garnered support from Republicans who are dissatisfied with the current presidential field.

A Washington Post-ABC News survey released Monday shows former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney leading the field of Republican candidates with 25 percent of likely Republican voters.

The poll shows support for another early favorite, Texas Governor Rick Perry, slipping to 16 percent, where he is tied with former pizza company executive Herman Cain.

The first state-by-state elections to determine who will challenge President Barack Obama in the 2012 election are set to start in about three months.