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One of the most powerful political leaders in the Houston area tells 11 News he may resign.

Harris County Judge Robert Eckels said he’s seriously considering leaving office to take a job in the private sector.

Eckels has lead the one of the biggest county governments in the nation for 12 years as Harris County Judge. 

He presides over the Harris County Commissioner’s Court and won national media attention for his leadership during the Katrina evacuee crisis. 

He said two law firms have contacted him in the last six months, and an aide said he’s also been contacted by an investment banking firm.

And he could also make a lot of money as a lobbyist.

But now he said someone is talking to him about a job that does not involve lobbying, and he’s considering taking it.

“I’m interested. I’d be foolish not to consider it,” he said, adding that any talk of his resignation at this point would be “very premature.”

However, Eckels has clearly thought about how he would be replaced.  The commissioners would appoint a new county judge, and Eckels himself would have a vote. 

That scenario would set up some intense backroom lobbying between the three Republicans and two Democrats on the commissioner’s court. 

For now, Eckels, who is out of town on business this week, says he has not signed a contract with the unidentified potential employer, but he confirms he’s engaged in serious discussions over a job that could lead to his resignation as Harris County Judge.