After launching an exploratory committee in mid-December, state Sen. Mike Kennedy announced Thursday he is making his bid for Utah’s 3rd Congressional District official.

Kennedy’s declaration comes after U.S. Rep. John Curtis, who currently represents the district, announced he’s pursuing the U.S. Senate by running to replace Sen. Mitt Romney after Romney retires at the end of his term.

In Kennedy’s announcement, the Republican stated that Congress is “deeply in need of conservative problem solvers and responsible governance.”

“We need leaders who will stand firm in their principles, challenge the status quo when needed, and work tirelessly for the freedoms, safety, and prosperity of all Americans,” he said.

Kennedy made headlines last year when he sponsored legislation to prohibit gender-affirming health care, such as puberty blockers and surgeries, for Utah minors. That legislation was later passed and signed by the governor.

The Alpine lawmaker joins a handful of other candidates who have declared their candidacy during the candidate filing period, which opened Tuesday.

Roosevelt Mayor Rod Bird, Jr., who previously was campaigning for the open U.S. Senate seat, instead has filed to run for Curtis’ seat in the U.S. House, filing his bid with the state Wednesday.

Other Republicans who have filed include entrepreneur Case Lawerence and former Utah County GOP Party Chair Stewart Peay.

There’s also at least one Democrat contender in the race, Glenn Wright, who challenged Curtis for the seat in 2022.

Kennedy has represented Utah Senate District 21 since 2013. The district contains some of northern Utah County, including parts of Alpine, Highland, American Fork and Pleasant Grove. He also is a practicing family physician and holds a law degree from Brigham Young University.

The candidate filing period for public office remains open until Monday.

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