Republican Rep. Lee Zeldin says he's officially exploring a run for governor.

Zeldin says he made the decision after talking it over with his wife and daughters.

The Shirley representative has been an outspoken critic of Gov. Andrew Cuomo recently with regards to his sexual harassment allegations as well as the ongoing alleged nursing home scandal.

Zeldin also criticized Cuomo's daily press briefings, saying the governor would joke around instead of just giving viewers facts.

Zeldin was also a close ally of former President Donald Trump.

If elected, Zeldin says he would first focus on the cost of living, restoring freedom and strengthening public safety.