Dentist Brian Babin (R) is considering a bid for the new 36th district in Texas. Babin told Roll Call that he put together an informal exploratory committee and is “several weeks” away from making a decision.

“We’re looking at it,” Babin said. “Right now, it looks real good.”

The new 36th district, which encompasses several counties northeast of Houston, is one of four new seats Texas is gaining because of population growth.

Babin will have company if he enters the race for the predominantly GOP seat. Longtime state Sen. Mike Jackson (R) already announced a bid, and former Pasadena Mayor John Manlove (R) is also looking to run in either the 14th or 36th.

Republican sources in the Lone Star State say Babin has an advantage because of his personal wealth. When questioned about whether he’d fund his own campaign, Babin told Roll Call, “That’s a bridge we cross when we get to it.”

Babin has some experience running for Congress in east Texas. He unsuccessfully challenged Rep. Jim Turner (D) in 1996 and 1998.