*Editor's note: This story has been updated to include details from an email sent out by Rep. Bill Flores.

WASHINGTON — U.S. Rep. Bill Flores, R-Bryan, said Monday he intends to seek the gavel of the United States House of Representatives. 

In an email circulated to some of his fellow House Republicans, Flores stated his plans, but also said he would "withdraw from the race if [Wisconsin Rep.] Paul Ryan elects to run for speaker." Ryan has said he doesn't want the post, but many in his party are calling for him to run. 

Flores made the same announcement Monday morning to a Texas Oil And Gas Association meeting in Las Colinas, according to two sources in the room. 

In his email, Flores asked his colleagues formally for their support. He touted his business background and emphasized that he was seeking feedback on the race and the speakership as a whole. 

Flores did not immediately respond to The Texas Tribune's request to comment on his candidacy.

The political world is holding its breath as Ryan, the GOP's 2012 vice presidential nominee, reluctantly considers Republican entreaties to run. While he has expressed little interest in serving in the position in this moment of Republican turmoil, he is generally considered the lone Republican who can unite the fractious House conference. 

If Ryan doesn't run and Flores does, the Texas congressman's biggest strength is that he chairs the largest voting bloc of conservatives, the Republican Study Committee. 

The Texas Tribune first reported last week that Flores was giving a run serious thought. 

He is not the only Texan in contention. U.S. Rep. Mike Conaway, R-Midland, has said he will consider running for speaker if Ryan opts against a run. U.S. Rep. Michael McCaul is also mulling a run, a source close to him confirmed.