Rep. Bart Stupak (D-Mich.), a key figure in the debate over abortion in the health care overhaul in Washington, D.C., is strongly considering a run for governor, prompting fears from Democratic leaders that his departure would open up another swing seat for Republicans’ to target.

Stupak said Tuesday that he will be traveling across his state in the coming weeks to gauge support for a bid, but added that he wants to avoid a bloody primary. Stupak has noted in the past that his support for gun rights and opposition to abortion rights would make it difficult for him to win a statewide Democratic primary. But he said Tuesday that his independent streak could make him the strongest Democratic candidate in a difficult election environment this year.

“I may very well be the strongest candidate,” he said, adding that there are three or four qualified candidates looking at running. “I would hope party leaders would get behind a candidate,” he said. “We can’t have a primary battle. A divisive primary would not be good.”