Former Democratic Rep. Michael E. McMahon is considering a comeback bid in New York’s Staten Island-based 11th District.

“Certainly taking a look at it,” he told CQ Roll Call Wednesday evening. McMahon said he expects to make a final decision on the race soon.

“Look,” he said, “the election is in two years, fundraising has to begin yesterday, so it’s a short time frame.”

McMahon was unseated by Republican Michael G. Grimm in 2010, losing by about 3 points.

In 2012, Grimm faced a series of terrible headlines about alleged ethical improprieties. The New York Republican, who denied any wrong doing, was never charged with any crime and easily dispatched the Democratic nominee, Mark S. Murphy in November.

But Murphy was considered by New York politicos of both parties to be one of the worst candidates of the cycle. In an interview last year with CQ Roll Call, Murphy had trouble articulating what, exactly, he believed.

If McMahon, seen as a strong candidate, jumps in the race, it would immediately become one of the more competitive House contests in the country. The 11th District voted about 52 percent for President Barack Obama in 2012, making Grimm one of only 16 Republican House members in Obama-voting districts.

Grimm had $242,000 in cash on hand on Nov. 26, according to Federal Election Commission filings. But he had $596,000 worth of debt.