Former Hamilton County Republican Party Chairman Wayne Cropp is the first candidate to pick up qualifying papers to run for the state Senate seat being vacated by David Fowler.
Mr. Cropp, who also was chairman of the Third District Republicans, picked up papers at the election office late Wednesday afternoon.
Rep. Gerald McCormick said he has decided not to run.
However, Rep. Bo Watson said he is leaning toward running for the Senate seat. He said he would talk with his campaign team, family and employer over the weekend and likely make an annoucement on Monday.
Rep. McCormick said, "I took a look at it, but I have only been in the House a year and a half. I have a lot of work to do here. I enjoy it and would like to stay if the voters allow it."
Concerning the possible candidacy of Rep. Watson, he said, "If he wants to run, I would encourage it. He is a good friend of mine."
The two state representatives are in the same Sunday School class at Centenary United Methodist Church.
Mr. Cropp, who is an attorney, was formerly executive director of the Air Pollution Control Bureau.
He later became president of Aquaterra Engineering.
Mr. Cropp is a Bryan College graduate.
The qualifying deadline is April 6 at noon.