LANSING, Mich. (AP) — State Sen. Tom George said Monday that he'll form a campaign committee to explore a 2010 run for governor.

The 52-year-old Kalamazoo County Republican said his campaign would focus on the state's economy.

George, a medical doctor, was elected in 2002 to the Senate after serving one term in the state House. He has supported a statewide smoking ban and wants to require Medicaid recipients to lead healthier lifestyles in return for benefits. He heads the Senate Health Policy Committee and is a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee.

A Flint native, George earned his medical degree from the University of Michigan in 1982. He's married and has three children.

If he runs, George could face a crowded field. Democratic Gov. Jennifer Granholm can't run for re-election in 2010 because of term limits, and the open seat has drawn a large number of hopefuls to the race.

Among the Republicans considering the governorship are Oakland County Executive L. Brooks Patterson, Secretary of State Terri Lynn Land, Attorney General Mike Cox and U.S. Rep. Pete Hoekstra. U.S. Reps. Mike Rogers and Candice Miller, businessman David Brandon and Oakland County Sheriff Mike Bouchard also have been mentioned as possibilities.

Democrats looking at the race include Lt. Gov. John Cherry, Flint Mayor Don Williamson, Wayne County Executive Robert Ficano, Macomb County Sheriff Mark Hackel and former Michigan State football coach and current university trustee George Perles.

SEN. TOM GEORGE BIO