Former Congressman Mark Neumann says creating jobs will be the top issue in the 2010 gubernatorial campaign and as a businessman he's the best candidate to do it.

Neumann, 55, filed papers today to run for governor in 2010 as a Republican. The Nashotah home developer will challenge Milwaukee County Executive Scott Walker and Appleton businessman Mark Todd for the GOP nomination.

Walker has broad support across the state from party activists and has a fundraising head start. But Neumann said he expects Republicans will be drawn to his message, which includes improving schools and finding solutions to protecting the environment without hurting businesses.

Neumann said he would campaign across the state, including in Madison, where the state needs to support business growth. He founded a series of public school choice schools in Milwaukee.

His campaign will announce staff later this month, he said.

Neumann made his remarks after filing paperwork at the Government Accountability Board's offices. He was accompanied by his wife, Sue.

For daily updates on area politics, keep your browser pointed to the State Journal's politics blog:
www.madison.com/wsj/blogs/PoliticsBlog