WASHINGTON (AP) — Dr. Ben Carson says he was looking forward to a relaxing retirement, but now thinks that “perhaps God has a different plan for me.”

The neurosurgeon, who many conservatives are urging to seek the Republican presidential nomination, spoke Wednesday at the National Press Club.

He blamed problems in Veterans Administration hospitals on a lack of accountability in the Obama administration. Carson said it illustrates a biblical proverb that warns “if a ruler hearkens to lies, all his servants are wicked.”

He also criticized what he called “the unaffordable care act,” saying Americans would be better off with health savings accounts they could spend wherever they want.

Asked how he might rally political support, Carson said all that matters is that he has “the support of God.” But he added that he has taken “no steps” toward launching a possible run for president, a job that Carson said he wouldn’t wish on anybody.

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