Republican Lt. Gov. Casey Cagle’s recent decision to drop out of the 2010 governor’s race has prompted at least one Republican to alter his campaign plans: Republican state Sen. Eric Johnson announced Monday his decision to switch his campaign for lieutenant governor to the 2010 governor’s race.

Johnson issued a statement saying he was prompted by Cagle’s decision to end his gubernatorial campaign due to health concerns.

“Casey is a friend, a fine man, and a great Lieutenant Governor… He has earned the right to be our nominee and deserves the opportunity to take all the necessary time with his recovery,” Johnson said.