Mitt Romney says he's considering 2016 presidential run

NEW YORK, Jan. 9 (UPI) -- Former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney on Friday said he's considering running for president in 2016, citing unrest overseas as one of the reasons for a possible third bid.

Romney revealed his desire to be president during a meeting with Republican donors, people present at the event told the Wall Street Journal.

"I think he is serious," one person present at the meeting in New York told CNN. "One of the first things he said he said was, 'People ask me, do you want to be president? Well, yes, I did run twice.' "

A possible run by Romney could complicate the plans of former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush, who in December said he's "actively exploring" a presidential bid. He has since quit advisor positions and given up paid speaking events, indicating serious intentions to run.

A CNN/ORC poll released in late December indicated Bush is a Republican favorite, with 23 percent of respondents showing support for him, followed by 13 percent for New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie.