State Rep. Jon Riki Karamatsu is considering running for lieutenant governor next year.

Karamatsu, a Democrat who represents Waipahu and Waikele, announced yesterday that he has authorized his campaign team to form an exploratory committee. Karamatsu says the economy and education are his top two priorities.

In October 2007, Karamatsu was the second-highest ranking Democrat in the state House when he was charged with drunken driving. Police said his blood alcohol content was more than twice Hawai'i's legal limit.

He stepped down from the leadership post and pleaded no contest to the charge.

Karamatsu was sentenced to 72 hours of community service and a $750 fine. He was also subject to a six-month suspension of his driver's license.