VIDEO: Tom DeLay - "Conservatives Can Open Their Collar And Put On Their Dancing Shoes"

Former House Republican Tom DeLay is ready to dance with the stars.

DeLay told Good Morning America on Tuesday he will relish the chance to shed his stodgy image with some fancy footwork.

"I love dancing; ya gotta love dancing if you're from Texas," the Houston-based politician said.

When asked if the upbeat show would conflict with his reputation as a hard line Republican, DeLay said: "Conservatives can have fun, too -- conservatives can open their collar and put on their dancing shoes. ... I'm in it to win it."

DeLay stepped down as the Republican House Majority Leader four years ago after he was indicted by a Texas jury on alleged financial wrongdoings.

Last season's competition was won by Olympic gymnast Shawn Johnson; the season premiere is slated for Monday, September 21 at 8/7c on ABC.