WASHINGTON (CNN) -- Breaking ranks with several of his potential rivals for the GOP presidential nomination, former New York Gov. George Pataki came out against President Bush's plan to increase troops in Iraq Friday, and he told CNN the Iraqi government must take "concrete steps" before the U.S. sends more troops to the war torn country.

"If the Maliki government shows the intent, will, and ability to move forward with Democracy, then we'll support the president's call for more troops," Pataki told CNN's Wolf Blitzer on the Situation Room.

While he wants to "focus on policy now," the New York Republican said he would "in all likelihood," decide in the next few weeks on a presidential run.

Sen. Sam Brownback of Kansas, who declared last weekend he is seeking the GOP nomination for president, has also said he is against a troop increase in Iraq.