Ex-mayor Rudy Giuliani leaves option open for NY governor run in 2010

ALBANY - Former Mayor Rudy Giuliani says he'll consider a run for governor.

"I don't know if I'd be interested in it," Giuliani said in response to aquestion at a business forum in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. "I'll think about it when the right time comes along."

Giuliani also did not rule out another run for the White House.

Gov.Paterson, a Democrat who took office in March after Eliot Spitzer's resignation, has said he will run in 2010 for a full term.

Republicans long have considered Giuliani one of their best shots at reclaiming the governor's mansion and revitalizing the party.

"He's a name that's nationally known ... who is still very popular," said John McArdle, spokesman for state Senate Majority Leader Dean Skelos. "He'd be a great candidate."

Some Democrats fear a Giuliani candidacy because of his popularity as mayor after the 9/11 terrorist attacks and his ability to raise money.