Former Erie County Executive Joel Giambra is confirming that he is running for governor.
Giambra officially announced his candidacy as a contender for the GOP nomination yesterday.
He had been considered a potential candidate but declared his intention to run in response to Cuomo's State of the State address. The former Democrat has been criticized by 2010 Republican candidate Carl Paladino for his moderate stance.
State Assembly Minority Leader Brian Kolb is also an announced candidate.