Tommy Thompson is ready to explore a presidential campaign.
Recent speculation had him running for governor or U.S. Senate, but now the former Republican governor now will be forming an exploratory committee for a presidential campaign. Thompson said he needs to find out if he has any support, and whether he can raise the money to run. "It takes a lot of money to run," said Thompson. "I don't know if I'll be able to garner that type of support. I think I will, but it's too early to tell, that's why it's an exploratory committee."
Thompson, in Eau Claire Thursday, said he gave more than 100 speeches last year, talking about what he sees as the major issues facing the nation. "I really think that I've got some ideas . . that could be used at the national level. And I really want to be on the national scene in order to articulate that message."
Thompson served as Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services during President Bush's first term.
(Audio: Dan Lea, WAYY)