Calling himself the "law enforcement candidate," Mecklenburg County Commissioner Jim Pendergraph announced Wednesday morning that he will run for the 9th District Congressional seat.
Pendergraph, a former sheriff in Mecklenburg County, will seek to replace fellow Republican Sue Myrick, who announced Tuesday she will not seek a 10th term in office. Myrick has represented the congressional district since 1994.
"I intend to continue the tradition of outstanding service, set by Representative Myrick over the last 18 years," Pendergraph said.
He made the announcement in a board room at the Keith Corporation offices near SouthPark. The room was crowded with about three dozen of his supporters, including sheriffs Eddie Cathey of Union County and Bruce Bryant of York County.
Other people mulling a run for Myrick's seat include: former GOP state Sen. Robert Pittenger; Republican Charlotte City Council member Andy Dulin; Mecklenburg Commissioner Bill James; and Dan Barry, mayor pro tem of Weddington.
Democrats Jennifer Roberts, a Mecklenburg commissioner, and Jeff Doctor, who challenged Myrick two years ago, also are considering a run.
