Missouri Auditor Tom Schweich says he is running for governor in 2016.
Schweich announced his candidacy Wednesday at the University of Missouri-St. Louis. It sets up the potential for a high-profile Republican primary against Catherine Hanaway, a former Missouri House speaker and U.S. attorney.
Schweich has been auditor since 2011 and was elected to another four-year term in November. He can run for governor without giving up his current job.
Democratic incumbent Governor Jay Nixon is prohibited by term limits from seeking re-election.
Hanaway declared her candidacy a year ago.
Attorney General Chris Koster is the only Democrat campaigning for governor.
Others could still join the race before the official candidacy filing period starts next year.