"We're going to be in this general election," Buchanan declared.

Perot founded the Reform Party and twice was its candidate for president. But without him, the party has been overcome by squabbling and factional fighting.

Minnesota Gov. Jesse Ventura, the party's top elected official, heads one camp and Buchanan jumped from the Republican Party last year to seek the Reform nomination.

There have been suggestions that Perot might decide to launch a third presidential bid in an effort to end the fighting, but Buchanan said that wasn't likely.

"I don't think Mr. Perot has indicated any intent to get into the race," said Buchanan, who added that his own plans would not change.

Buchanan was in Iowa for a book-signing and a "signature rally" that's a petition drive to get on the ballot. Ballot access in Iowa is relatively easy, with only 1,500 signatures needed and Buchanan said it's part of a national ballot access effort.

"It is a long, tedious, arduous process and complex, but I believe we have figured it out and are going to have the resources to do it," said Buchanan.

Buchanan said he intended to be a force in the election because people will be bored with the eventual nominees, which he predicted would be Texas Gov. George W. Bush for the Republicans and Vice President Al Gore for the Democrats.

"The country is looking for something fresh and different," said Buchanan, who brings a sharply conservative and protectionist message to the campaign trail. "There is no great interest in this campaign thus far."