ATLANTA (AP) — Gov. Nathan Deal says his administration will take a deliberate approach to reviewing the state's method for funding K-12 schools.

The governor reiterated his plan to tackle the politically tough issue of school spending while speaking to reporters on Wednesday, one day after defeating Democrat Jason Carter to earn a second term. Deal again was part of a GOP sweep of Georgia's statewide offices.

Education funding experts and lawmakers say the issue is bound to be challenging and could take several legislative sessions. Deal says his own plan not to run for office again could make the process easier.

Carter declined interviews on Wednesday, sending an email to supporters to thank them for making debates about education and middle-class families a priority during the campaign.