State Rep. John Lovick, D-Mill Creek, announced today he will run for the Snohomish County sheriff's position held by retiring Republican Rick Bart.

Lovick is the House Speaker Pro-Tem and most days presides over the House. He's in his fifth term in the House. He spent 31 years with the Washington State Patrol.

In a statement today, Lovick praised Bart's 12 years as sheriff:

I want to build on his past work as we move the Department forward. Under my command the Sheriff’s Office will be effective and responsive to the needs of our citizens.