ATLANTA (AP) — Georgia has been selected by a national trade publication as the top state in the country to do business.

Gov. Nathan Deal announced the recognition Monday, saying Georgia has taken steps to create a favorable business climate with lower taxes and strong workforce training programs. Deal, who is seeking re-election next year, touted the award as making good on one of his campaign promises.

The recognition came from Site Selection magazine. Georgia knocked off North Carolina, who had earned the title last year.

The publication's ranking is based on a combination of factors, including a survey of corporate site selectors, a tax burden analysis and a list of projects with a minimum investment of $1 million and 50 or more new jobs.