A year before the Democratic primary, State Sen. Ed Harbison is getting on board with Georgia's "Big Guy."

The Columbus Ledger-Enquirer reports:

"It's his time," Harbison said. "He has paid his dues and governor should be the next rung on the ladder."

Taylor -- the self-proclaimed "Big Guy" of state politics -- is in his second term as lieutenant governor. A former state senator from Albany, he has a 19-year career of public service.

Next summer's Democratic campaign promises to be lively. Joining Taylor in the primary race is Secretary of State Cathy Cox, another longtime party regular.

That made his decision difficult, Harbison said.

"Cathy is a great leader," he said, "but Mark Taylor has the ability to win."