Arizona state senator officially seeking Giffords seat
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}Republican State Sen. Frank Antenori is officially in the race to replace Democratic Rep. Gabrielle Giffords.
Antenori made the announcement Friday at a Republican Club meeting in Green Valley. He plans to run in both the special election to replace Giffords in District 8 this spring and the regular election for her renumbered District 2 in the fall.
Antenori moved to Tucson after retiring from the Army in 2004 and lost a 2006 primary run for the Congressional seat. He went on to win a 2008 state House race and crushed his Democratic opponent in a 2010 race for the state Senate.
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}Other Republicans expected to enter the primary race include 2010 Giffords opponent Jesse Kelly and Tucson sports broadcaster Dave Sitton.
Several Democrats are considering entering the race.