Former President of the Benton-Stephens Neighborhood Association, Democrat Kip Kendrick, announced Thursday he will run for the 45th District House seat. Democratic Representative, Chris Kelly, endorsed him.
Kendrick told KBIA he will focus on the district's education system and healthcare.
"Without champions for MU, without champions for healthcare, and without champions for our public schools, our economy will suffer, and Columbia will not be able to reach its full potential," Kendrick said.
Kendrick said he wants to treat this next year -- 2014 -- as an apprenticeship with Kelly so he could understand Boone County issues better.
"I really want to treat this next year as somewhat of an apprenticeship," Kendrick said. "To work with him, learn the processes in Jefferson City, and to better understand the issues here in Boone County."
There are currently no other candidates for the vacant seat.