Macomb County (WWJ)  -- He's been mentioned as a possible candidate for Macomb County Executive, but Wednesday Sheriff Mark Hackel announced he's formed an exploratory committee to look into a possible run for governor of Michigan.

Hackel, who won re-election to a third term as sheriff last month, says its time to move Michigan in a new direction.

"I have spent my entire career building bridges and bringing people together to advance common interests.  It is time to finally put aside partisan politics and find immediate solutions to the dire circumstances we find ourselves in today," Hackel said in a statement. 

Hackel plans to meet with community leaders and others to "examine the feasibility" of running for governor.