Winona real estate agent Jack Krage announced plans Nov. 30 to run against state Sen. Jeremy Miller in 2012.
Krage, a Democrat, is the first challenger to declare against the Republican Miller, who was first elected to the 31st District senate seat in 2010.
Krage is a political newcomer, though he said Wednesday that he's considered running for the seat for years.
"I feel that this district needs someone who's receptive and responsive to the actual citizens who are here, rather than walking in step with the Republican Party," he said. "They need someone who can be a little open-minded."
Krage was born on a dairy farm in Ridgeway and graduated from Winona State University.
He's worked as a real estate agent for Coldwell Banker in Winona for 27 years, and has served two terms as president of the Southeast Minnesota Association of Realtors.
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Krage said he's disappointed with recent decisions and events at the Capitol, including the elimination of the Market Value Homestead Credit, which provided property tax breaks to lower-income homeowners, and the state government shutdown in July.
"I have a feel for what people's needs and wants are, and I feel the time is right for me to stand up and do my civic duty," Krage said.
Miller narrowly beat DFLer Sharon Erickson Ropes in 2010 for the seat.
State senators serve four-year terms, but all state legislators will stand for election in 2012 because of redistricting.