State Rep. Randy Weber (R) indicated Tuesday that he will likely seek the east Texas seat of retiring Rep. Ron Paul (R).

Weber said his exploratory efforts gave him “a strong indication that if I enter the race, I will have solid backing in every corner of the district.” But the Republican stopped short of declaring a bid outright.

“I have tested the waters and found that I am a strong swimmer,” Weber said in a press release. “I anticipate making an announcement next week.”

The race for Paul’s seat is wide open, and Republicans expect several other GOP candidates to run.
Beaumont lawyer Michael Truncale announced his candidacy last month. Former Pasadena Mayor John Manlove and Pearland City Councilmember Felicia Harris are considering bids. Former Rep. Steve Stockman also expressed interest in running.

Republican state lawmakers redrew the 14th district earlier this year, making the seat slightly more competitive. Democrats are seeking to take advantage of this and continue to urge former Rep. Nick Lampson to run.

In a Monday interview with the Galveston County Daily News, Lampson called another campaign “intriguing” but indicated he’s hesitant about another bid.