A representative for Michigan House member Thaddeus McCotter bid $18,000 to secure the second-best location to campaign at the site of the Ames Straw Poll in Iowa.

While McCotter has not officially announced a presidential bid, his decision to participate in the straw poll signals that he plans to enter.

Ron Paul bought the best location, spending $31,000, according to the Iowa Republican. Michele Bachmann and Herman Cain each spent $17,000, while Rick Santorum and Tim Pawlenty spent $15,000 — the minimum — for less desirable spots. Newt Gingrich did not purchase a spot. Nor did Mitt Romney and Jon Huntsman, who have both indicated they don’t intend to compete in Iowa.