Raleigh, N.C. — Charlotte Mayor Patrick McCrory has filed paperwork with the State Board of Elections to create a campaign committee called "Elect Pat McCrory Governor."

The seven-term Republican said Wednesday that he wasn't going to talk about speculation he might seek the state's top political office. He also declined to comment when asked about the paperwork filed late Tuesday.

A member of McCrory's staff in Charlotte issued a statement Wednesday afternoon that said McCrory would announce his intentions next week.

"This is only the first step in the process for statewide office as required by law," the statement said.

McCrory was in Chapel Hill on Wednesday afternoon, speaking at a meeting of the North Carolina Metropolitan Coalition of Mayors.

The paperwork filed with the State Board of Elections discloses an intention to run for state office and lists people who will oversee the campaign finances.

Three other Republicans are already in the race: Salisbury attorney Bill Graham, former state Supreme Court Chief Justice Robert Orr and state Sen. Fred Smith.

Watch the GOP gubernatorial candidates debate at 7 p.m. Jan. 17 on WRAL-TV and WRAL.com.