(CNN) Howard Schultz, the former CEO of Starbucks, is exploring running for president as an independent candidate, two people familiar with his thinking told CNN.

A person close to Schultz's advisers said they "are exploring a possible independent bid for the presidency in 2020," but the person emphasized that all options remained on the table.

"(Schultz) is thinking deeply about his future and how he can best serve the country," the person said.

Schultz stepped down from his position at Starbucks last year, and he said at the time he may consider a White House bid.

He went on to criticize President Donald Trump, citing both "vitriolic behavior" from the Trump administration and a cut to corporate taxes during an interview with CNBC in June. At the time, he said, "President Trump has given license to the fact that someone who is not a politician could potentially run for the presidency."

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