County Commission Chairman Larry Henry announced Wednesday afternoon on the courthouse steps that he plans to run for the open Circuit Court clerk post.
He said he was announcing early so that candidates interested in the District 7 County Commission seat can begin making plans.
The announcement comes two days after School Board Chairman Mike Evatt also said he is running.
Paula Thompson is not seeking re-election.
Both candidates will be in the Republican primary.
Chairman Henry was joined on the courthouse steps by his family, friends Joe Dzik and Mike Mahn, Republican Party Chairman Tony Sanders and fellow Commissioners Marty Haynes, Joe Graham and Tim Boyd.
Chairman Henry said, "After 39 years of running a successful business and entering into my 12th year on the County Commission with five terms as chairman, I feel that I am equal to the task of serving as the Circuit Court clerk for Hamilton County.
"During the time that I have been considering this, I have diligently investigated the duties of the Circuit Court clerk, have spoken with many of the deputy clerks, and have gained an understanding of many of the issues facing the office.
"I am confident in my ability to handle these issues appropriately based on my experience in business and government. It is my desire to effectively serve the public with the utmost equality and professionalism and to insure that the office of the Circuit Court clerk functions efficiently in its service to the Hamilton County court system."
He also said, "I will continue to effectively and diligently serve my constituents in District 7 for the remainder of my term as commissioner.
"With the help of the citizens of Hamilton County, I look forward to putting my business and government experience to work for the betterment of the Circuit Court clerk's office."