Trump stokes 2016 speculation

Business mogul Donald Trump is stoking speculation that he’ll run for the Republican presidential nomination in 2016. On his Twitter account Sunday night, Trump retweeted at least a dozen tweets from random supporters urging him to run for president.

“@e1e5672d96c747c:Mr. Trump,We need you in Office,We need you to direct your famous quote to all who have jeopardize Our Country,Your Fired!

— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 24, 2014

“@Lillytwotimes: @realDonaldTrump run for president pleaseeee”

— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 23, 2014

A few of the tweets were from people who said Trump was likely too busy to run, but Trump shot back: “Just watch.”

“@mileswynn3: @CahlRStorrie @Jennifer75AR Trump would be # 1 however he has his plate full so unfortunately I do not think so” Just watch!

— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 23, 2014

“@mileswynn3 @Jennifer75AR @CahlRStorrie Guys Trump is busy running the Trump brand he is not going to take a step down as President.” Watch

— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 23, 2014

Last year, Trump reportedly spent $1 million on political research in consideration of a presidential bid, and since 2013 he’s made several trips to Iowa to meet with social conservatives. Trump spent months teasing his potential candidacy in 2012 before deciding not to run. Many observers don’t take his presidential musings seriously, saying he’s more concerned with generating headlines and enhancing his global business brand. Still, the media attention he’d get during a potential run would shake-up the political scene, and Trump has supporters. In early 2011, some polls showed Trump leading the entire field of GOP candidates. He said he wouldn’t run before any debates, caucuses or primaries.