Former New York Gov. George Pataki said on Thursday he is once again considering running for the Republican presidential nomination in 2016.
“Well I’m thinking about it because really it comes down to the future of the country,” he told Fox Business Network’s Neil Cavuto, who asked him what would make him stand out in a crowded field of GOP candidates.
{mosads}“I’m taller than all of them, I think,” he joked, before turning serious. “It’s way too soon to say that. I’m sure there are going to be a dozen people running and I think that’s a good thing, I think it’s good for the American people to have a choice.”
He was also asked about recent video showing New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie — another possible 2016 contender — telling a protester to “sit down and shut up.”
“I think stability helps in politics. I think the people want someone who’s going to be straightforward and give them an honest answer,” he said.
“But be civil about it, and be respectful of people who might not agree.”
In October, Pataki visited early-primary state New Hampshire and spoke to state business leaders.
The 69-year-old served as governor of New York from 1995 through 2006. He was one of the elected officials who helped coordinate the response to the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks.
This is not the first time he’s moved toward a White House run.
After leaving office, Pataki entered the private sector — but has reportedly considered running for office again several times. In 2008, he hired staff in New Hampshire before opting out of the race. Four years later, he said in an interview he was considering a run.
None ever materialized.
The GOP has tried to tap him for other national positions. Sen. John Cornyn (R-Texas) is said to have wanted him to challenge Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.) for her seat in 2010.