Montpelier, Vermont - A republican is finally entering the race to be Vermont's next governor.
On Wednesday, State Senator Randy Brock officially announced he's a candidate and top state republicans are already endorsing Brock.
Brock says while there are many challenges facing the state, Vermont can do better than it's doing now.
But the biggest hurdle for the 68-year-old may be he is unknown to many Vermonters.
Surrounded by top state republicans, Brock joined the race for Vermont Governor in Montpelier Wednesday.
"I am running for governor because I love Vermont," says Brock.
A Middlebury College graduate and a military veteran, Brock is currently a state senator from Swanton. Before that, the 68-year-old was state auditor and also helped run an investment company.
"What I will offer to the people of Vermont in my campaign for governor is a solid, fiscally-responsible program designed to inspire Vermonters with a promise of a better tomorrow for our children and our grandchildren," says Brock.
Brock says that won't be easy because the state faces major challenges. Those include recovering from Tropical Storm Irene, lowering property taxes and improving the state's economy.
"In these and so many other areas, I feel our present administration is falling short," says Brock.
But Brock admits current governor, Democrat Peter Shumlin has a major advantage: state history.
"No incumbent governor has been defeated in Vermont in half a century…. Well, all I can say is it's about time," says Brock.
Brock has the backing of many top state republicans. After talk of a rematch, former Lieutenant Governor Brian Dubie came out in support of Brock. So did former Governor Jim Douglas.
As for other possible candidates, Vermont Republican Party chair Pat McDonald says she is still exploring a run.
Governor Peter Shumlin has said he will announce his plans later next year.
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