In a statement released Wednesday morning, the office said that Cagle has formed an exploratory committee to begin work on his gubernatorial campaign.
"I am strongly considering a run for Governor in 2010, and today we filed paperwork to begin that process by forming an exploratory committee," the statement said. "We did this in order to ensure every step we take is fully in compliance with the campaign disclosure requirements of Georgia law. In the months between now and the legislative session, our steering committee will be actively working to build a sound financial and organizational footing for future campaigns."
According to the statement, Cagle will not make a formal announcement until after the 2009 state legislative session.
"...there is a time for a robust and public gubernatorial debate and that time is not now. Our state faces a budget crisis of historical proportions and as Lieutenant Governor, I will be spending the majority of my time this year preparing for the difficult task of balancing our budget, blocking tax increases and cutting wasteful spending. Furthermore, we must elect John McCain to the Presidency, return Saxby Chambliss to the U.S. Senate and protect our Republican majorities in the State Senate and State House."
Gainesville resident Philip Wilheit is serving on Cagle's exploratory committee.
"We're putting out feelers throughout the state to explore the possibilities of Casey's chances for governor," Wilheit said.
He said the committee has heard positive reactions so far from Cagle's native Hall County, as well as elsewhere.
"He is strong and well known in south Georgia, but the Atlanta business community seems to be firmly behind Casey," he said.
Wilheit said Cagle will be concentrating on the state's budget and economy right now, not his run for governor.
http://accesswdun.com/article/2008/9/213165