Iowa Republican Terry Branstad, a former governor, is initiating a 2010 campaign to reclaim his old job.

Branstad, who was Iowa’s chief executive from 1983 to 1999, on Wednesday formally created an “exploratory” committee that almost certainly will lead to a full-fledged campaign against Democratic Gov. Chet Culver.

Among those praising Branstad’s move was Sandy Greiner, a former state legislator who organized a “Draft Branstad” effort.

“Today is a great day for future generations of Iowans as Gov. Branstad takes the next step toward deciding to run for governor of Iowa,” Greiner said.