The AP reports Maj. Gen. Hunt Downer has finally made it official – he’s launching a campaign for the 3rd District GOP primary against Jeff Landry and Kristian Magar…

HOUMA, La. (AP) – A Republican former state House speaker is running for an open south Louisiana congressional district seat.

Hunt Downer, who recently retired as a major general in the Louisiana National Guard, says he filed his federal paperwork Wednesday to formally establish his candidacy for the 3rd District congressional seat.

The position is currently held by Charlie Melancon, a Democrat who is leaving the seat to challenge Republican David Vitter for the U.S. Senate this year.

In his announcement, Downer complained of Washington spending and the national debt.

Downer will face at least two other Republicans who have indicated they would seek the position in a party primary Aug. 28. The congressional general election is Nov. 2.