Steve King doesn't rule out 2014 Senate bid

Rep. Steve King (R-Iowa), fresh off a hard-fought reelection battle, isn't ruling out running for the Senate in 2014.

Sen. Tom Harkin (D-Iowa) has not said whether he's running for reelection. King, a Tea Party favorite and strong fundraiser, could make a strong run for the seat, whether it's against Harkin or another Democrat.

"I know that’s something that is on the horizon ... but I think there are some decisions that need to be made before I could comment on that," King told local reporters.

The congressman said he is keeping his options open but doesn't "want to raise expectations unnecessarily."

He also argued he isn't too conservative to run statewide, though he's long been one of the more conservative and outspoken members of Congress and represents the state's most conservative district.

"I have a consistent record. I think people know me," he said, arguing his views wouldn't be "an impediment at all."

"I do love this state and the people in it," King continued. "I cherish the opportunity to serve."

Harkin's seat is just one of more than a dozen swing- or red-state seats Senate Democrats will be defending in two years.