OTTUMWA — Sen. Paul McKinley says he is seriously considering a run for governor and will make a decision later this year on whether to formally seek the post.

"I am announcing today that I am actively exploring a run for governor," McKinley told The Courier in a phone interview.

McKinley, who was first elected to the Iowa Senate nine years ago and elected Senate Minority Leader before the 2009 legislative session, said the state is raising too many barriers to economic expansion. He believes the state needs to ensure a business-friendly climate in order to compete in a global economy.

To McKinley, part of that means reining in state spending. He has been a vocal critic of the budget adopted during this year's legislative session and is warning of massive deficits for next year if the state fails to make cuts. The same message will continue in his bid for governor, though McKinley pledged to offer a "positive vision."

Tuesday's announcement was not entirely unexpected, digital signs tipped off watchers that an announcement was likely. McKinley established a website www.mckinleyforiowa.com, and changed his Twitter name to McKinleyforIowa as well. He joins fellow Republicans Bob Vander Plaats, Chris Rants and Christian Fong as prospective candidates.